{"product_id":"melanochromis-red-melanochromis-interuptus","title":"Melanochromis 'Red' (Melanochromis interruptus) 3","description":"\u003ch2\u003eOverview\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMelanochromis 'Red'\u003c\/strong\u003e (\u003cem\u003eMelanochromis interruptus\u003c\/em\u003e) is a striking Malawi mbuna cichlid known for its bold personality, active swimming, and strong territorial instincts. Sold here at \u003cstrong\u003e3-4 cm\u003c\/strong\u003e, these juveniles are a great choice for aquarists looking to build a vibrant African cichlid display with plenty of movement and character.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis species is best suited to experienced keepers or confident beginners who are ready to provide the correct water chemistry, rockwork, and stocking plan. Like many mbuna, \u003cem\u003eMelanochromis interruptus\u003c\/em\u003e thrives in hard, alkaline water and does best in a species-appropriate aquarium with plenty of hiding places and carefully chosen tank mates. When kept correctly, it develops into a colourful, energetic fish that becomes a real centrepiece in the aquarium.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAll fish are supplied with our \u003cstrong\u003elive arrival guarantee\u003c\/strong\u003e and dispatched with \u003cstrong\u003efast UK delivery\u003c\/strong\u003e, so your new cichlids arrive in the best possible condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCare at a Glance\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCare factor\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDetails\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eScientific name\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cem\u003eMelanochromis interruptus\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCommon name\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMelanochromis 'Red'\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCare level\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eModerate\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTemperament\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSemi-aggressive\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAdult size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eUp to 10 cm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMinimum tank size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e200 litres+\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTemperature\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e24-26°C\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003epH\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e7.5-8.5\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHardness\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e10-30 dGH\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDiet\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOmnivore with a strong vegetable component\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTank region\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMiddle\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\u003ch2\u003eOrigin \u0026amp; Natural Habitat\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eMelanochromis interruptus\u003c\/em\u003e is a Malawi cichlid from the rocky shoreline habitats of Lake Malawi in East Africa. In the wild, mbuna live among broken rock formations, crevices, and caves where they graze on algae and small invertebrates while defending territories. This natural environment is bright, mineral-rich, and highly oxygenated, with stable warm temperatures and alkaline water.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe species’ behaviour in the aquarium reflects this habitat closely. It is active, territorial, and happiest when given a complex rockscape that mimics the shelter and boundaries of its native lake. Because these fish are adapted to grazing and browsing in rocky zones, they should not be kept in soft, acidic water or in sparsely decorated tanks.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eTank Setup \u0026amp; Water Parameters\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eA successful mbuna aquarium should prioritise structure over open swimming space. For a small group or mixed mbuna community, we recommend a tank of \u003cstrong\u003e200 litres or more\u003c\/strong\u003e, with a larger aquarium preferred if you plan to keep multiple males or a broader cichlid community. Use a sandy or fine gravel substrate and build extensive rock formations that reach securely to the base of the tank. Caves, ledges, and visual barriers help reduce aggression by breaking up lines of sight.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMaintain water at \u003cstrong\u003e24-26°C\u003c\/strong\u003e with a stable \u003cstrong\u003epH of 7.5-8.5\u003c\/strong\u003e and hardness around \u003cstrong\u003e10-30 dGH\u003c\/strong\u003e. Strong filtration and good circulation are important, as mbuna produce a fair amount of waste and prefer highly oxygenated water. Regular partial water changes will help keep nitrate low and support long-term health and colour.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhen introducing new fish, rearranging some of the rockwork can help disrupt established territories and reduce immediate aggression. Keep only one male of this species unless the aquarium is very large and carefully stocked. In many setups, a ratio of one male to several females is ideal, though individual temperament and tank size should always guide stocking decisions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFeeding Guide\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAlthough mbuna are often described as herbivorous, \u003cem\u003eMelanochromis interruptus\u003c\/em\u003e is best treated as an \u003cstrong\u003eomnivore with a strong vegetable component\u003c\/strong\u003e. In the wild, it grazes aufwuchs, algae, and tiny associated organisms. In the aquarium, offer a high-quality cichlid pellet or flake designed for African cichlids, supplemented with spirulina-based foods, blanched spinach, courgette, and other suitable greens.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFeed small amounts once or twice daily, only as much as the fish will consume quickly. Overfeeding can lead to water quality issues and digestive problems. Avoid heavy use of rich, protein-laden foods such as bloodworm or beef heart, as these are not ideal for mbuna and can contribute to bloating and other health concerns.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eTank Mates \/ Compatibility\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eMelanochromis interruptus\u003c\/em\u003e is best kept with other robust Malawi cichlids that can handle a lively, territorial environment. Good tank mates include similarly sized mbuna and selected non-mbuna Malawi species with compatible water needs and temperament. Always ensure the aquarium is large enough to diffuse aggression and provide plenty of rockwork.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBecause this species can be assertive, avoid slow, delicate, or long-finned fish. Peaceful community species are not suitable, and mixing with very similar-looking mbuna can increase conflict. Careful planning is essential, especially in smaller tanks where territorial disputes are more likely.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor best results, stock with fish of comparable size and temperament, and avoid overcrowding. A well-planned mbuna setup often works better with a larger group and plenty of structure than with too few fish in a bare aquarium, which can intensify aggression.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhy Buy from Tropical Fish Co\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt Tropical Fish Co, we select healthy, well-conditioned livestock and prepare every order with care. Your \u003cem\u003eMelanochromis interruptus\u003c\/em\u003e will be packed for safe transit and sent using \u003cstrong\u003efast UK delivery\u003c\/strong\u003e, backed by our \u003cstrong\u003elive arrival guarantee\u003c\/strong\u003e for peace of mind.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWe also provide clear, practical care information so you can set up the right environment from day one. Whether you are building a dedicated Malawi display or adding colour and personality to an established cichlid tank, we are here to help you choose fish that will thrive in your aquarium. If you are looking for a bold mbuna with real presence, \u003cstrong\u003eMelanochromis 'Red'\u003c\/strong\u003e is an excellent choice.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tropical Fish Co","offers":[{"title":"3-4 cm","offer_id":57446788759887,"sku":"JP53","price":15.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"4 - 5 cm","offer_id":57451354030415,"sku":"0769","price":17.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"5,5 - 7 cm","offer_id":57451354063183,"sku":"0768","price":23.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"7-9 cm","offer_id":57560311431503,"sku":"JP54","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1007\/1408\/6735\/files\/melanochromis-red-melanochromis-interuptus-hero-driftwood-jp53.webp?v=1777520175","url":"https:\/\/tropical-fish-co.myshopify.com\/products\/melanochromis-red-melanochromis-interuptus","provider":"Tropical Fish Co","version":"1.0","type":"link"}