Pseudotropheus Socolofi 2"

The Pindani cichlid is known from Thumbi to Cobue on the eastern side of the lake. Here, it inhabits the intermediate habitat where rocky areas give way to sandy substrates. It belongs to the Mbuna group of cichlids. The aquarium should be at least 5ft long and aquascaped to emulate a rocky reef effect with some open expanses of sand. Décor such as ocean rock can be used to build sturdy structures which stretch from the base of the tank to near the surface of the water. These structures should be built with the purpose of creating many crevices for the fish to explore but constructed in such a way so as to keep the rocks stable if the fish start to dig around and underneath them. Although a substrate of coral sand or Aragonite is often recommended to help to keep the water hard and alkaline, Mbuna feel safer and show better colours over a darker substrate. The Aragonite or coral sand can always be placed into a mesh bag and kept inside the external filter for buffering purposes. This is a relatively peaceful species (as far as Malawi cichlids are concerned), however, it is best to keep several females to each male, as keeping in pairs will result in continual harassment. This species can be kept successfully alongside Aulonocara, Copadichromis, Haps, and other easygoing Mbuna such as Labidochromis caeruleus, making it a versatile addition for many Malawi set-ups. However, it is best to avoid fish with a similar colour pattern. Interestingly, individuals from some geographical populations lack the submarginal black band on the dorsal fin. May also be seen on sale as the Pindani Mbuna or Powder Blue Cichlid. An albino form is commonly seen, generally labelled as Snow White zebra.