Chindongo Saulosi — Juvenile, Unsexed (Captive Bred)

Chindongo saulosi is one of Lake Malawi's most rewarding mbuna cichlids, and buying juveniles means you get to watch the transformation yourself. At this size, the fish are unsexed — both males and females show the warm yellow-gold coloration that's natural for juveniles and females of this species. As males mature, they'll gradually shift to a striking electric blue with bold black vertical barring. It's one of the most satisfying things to watch develop in your own tank.

These juveniles were bred and raised in my home fish room in Brookfield, Illinois, from a colony I've maintained and worked with for years. They are eating well, healthy, and ready to grow out in your tank.

If you want fish that are already showing full color, see my Adult Male listing.

Care at a glance:

Tank size: 30 gallons minimum; 55+ gallons recommended if raising a colony

Temperature: 76–82°F

pH: 7.8–8.5 (hard, alkaline water — Lake Malawi parameters)

Diet: High-quality cichlid flake or spirulina pellet. Primarily herbivorous — avoid high-protein foods.

Temperament: Aggressive mbuna. Best kept in species-only or mbuna community setups with heavy rockwork. Plan for 1 male to 3–4 females in an established colony.

Max size: 3.5–4 inches

Shipping:

Ships Monday through Wednesday only. Insulated foam box with heat or cold packs appropriate to your weather. Live arrival guaranteed — contact me within 2 hours of delivery with a photo if there's a problem and I'll make it right.

Size: Approximately 1 inch