Red Zebra Mbuna 4.5"

🔴 Red Zebra Mbuna (4.5”) – Vibrant Malawi Color & Classic Mbuna Attitude

Add a bold splash of fiery orange to your African cichlid tank with the Red Zebra Mbuna (Maylandia estherae), a Lake Malawi classic known for its intense red-orange coloration, high energy, and territorial flair. At 4.5 inches, this adult-size Mbuna is fully colored up and ready to dominate the rockwork in your African setup.

Whether you’re building a colorful Mbuna colony or enhancing an existing African community tank, the Red Zebra is a must-have species that delivers visual impact, personality, and nonstop movement.

🐟 Species Profile:

• Scientific Name: Maylandia estherae (formerly Metriaclima estherae)

• Common Name: Red Zebra Mbuna

• Size: 4.5 inches (adults average 4–5”)

• Temperament: Aggressive, territorial

• Tank Size: 55+ gallons minimum (75+ preferred for mixed colonies)

• Water Parameters: 76–82°F | pH 7.8–8.6 | Hard, alkaline water

• Diet: Omnivore – prefers spirulina-based flakes, algae wafers, and occasional protein

🪨 Ideal Setup & Compatibility:

Red Zebras thrive in Mbuna-style tanks with:

• Lots of rockwork, caves, and stacked hiding spots

• Sand or fine gravel substrate

• Powerful filtration and frequent water changes

Tank mates should include other Mbuna cichlids with similar aggression levels:

• Yellow Labs, Acei, Auratus, and Cobalt Blues

• Tanganyikan Synodontis catfish or Plecos for cleanup

• Avoid delicate or slow-moving species—they’ll be bullied

Red Zebras are active diggers and claim territory quickly, especially when housed as the dominant male. Their vivid color and bold behavior make them a focal point in any African cichlid display.

🛒 Why Buy from RobsAquatics.com?

Each 4.5” Red Zebra Mbuna is:

• Tank-raised and fully acclimated to aquarium life

• Displaying full adult coloration and social behavior

• Shipped live with our Live Arrival Guarantee

• A perfect choice for African cichlid enthusiasts who want immediate visual impact

📦 Limited stock available at show size – no grow-out needed. Order your Red Zebra Mbuna today—only at RobsAquatics.com.