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Maylandia crabro, commonly known as the Bumblebee Cichlid or Hornet Cichlid, is a fascinating and polymorphic species of mbuna cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi, Africa. It is renowned for its striking color changes, particularly its ability to rapidly switch between a bright yellow and black striped pattern and a dark, almost black, coloration. This species exhibits significant sexual dimorphism and behavioral plasticity, making it a subject of considerable scientific interest and a popular aquarium fish.
Physical Characteristics
- Body shape
- compressed
- Coloration
- Highly polymorphic. Dominant males and females typically display a bright yellow body with 6-8 prominent black vertical bars. Subordinate males, stressed individuals, or individuals mimicking catfish (Bagrus meridionalis) can rapidly change to a dark, almost entirely black or dark brown coloration, often with faint bars. Fins are typically yellow with black markings, and males may have egg spots on the anal fin.
- Scale type
- ctenoid
- Mouth position
- terminal
- Distinctive features
- Rapid color change ability (polymorphism), Prominent vertical black bars on a yellow background (dominant phase), Dark, almost black coloration (subordinate/mimicry phase), Robust body with a steep forehead, Relatively large eyes
- Dorsal fin
- Long, continuous dorsal fin with 17-19 spines and 8-10 soft rays. Often edged in black.
- Tail fin
- Truncate to slightly emarginate caudal fin, typically yellow with black spots or streaks.
- Pectoral fin
- Pectoral fins are clear to yellowish.
- Distinctive fins
- Anal fin has 3 spines and 7-9 soft rays, often with prominent yellow egg spots in males.
Identification Tips
Coloration and Pattern
Look for the characteristic yellow body with black vertical bars. Observe for rapid color changes, especially when stressed or interacting with other fish. The ability to switch to a dark, almost black phase is a key identifier.
Body Shape
A robust, compressed body with a relatively steep forehead is typical for mbuna cichlids, including M. crabro.
Egg Spots
Males typically display prominent yellow egg spots on their anal fin, which are used during spawning to entice females.
Behavior
Observe its behavior. M. crabro is known for its aggressive and territorial nature, as well as its unique mimicry behavior.
Habitat
- Water type
- freshwater
- Depth
- Typically found in depths ranging from 5 to 20 meters (16-65 feet), but can be found deeper.
- Environment
- Rocky areas of Lake Malawi, particularly in sediment-free zones. They inhabit caves, crevices, and rocky outcrops, often associating with large rocks and boulders.
- Geographic range
- Endemic to Lake Malawi, Africa. Widely distributed throughout the lake, but particularly common along the rocky shores.
Aquarium Information
- Care level: intermediate
- Temperament: aggressive
- Diet: omnivore
- Minimum tank size: 75 gallons (280 liters)
- Temperature: 76-82°F (24-28°C)
- pH level: 7.8-8.6
- Hardness: 10-20 dGH
- Compatibility: Best kept in a species-specific tank or with other robust mbuna cichlids from Lake Malawi. Avoid keeping with peaceful or smaller fish. A single male with multiple females is recommended to disperse aggression.
- Special requirements: Requires a rocky aquascape with numerous caves and hiding spots to mimic its natural habitat. Good filtration and regular water changes are essential due to their messy eating habits and high bioload. Provide a varied diet to prevent Malawi bloat.
Wild Information
- Conservation status: least concern
- Seasonality: Breeds year-round in its natural habitat, with peak activity often influenced by food availability and water conditions.
- Market price: Varies based on size and coloration, typically moderate for a cichlid.
- Commercial importance: medium
- Taste: Not typically consumed in Western cultures; however, cichlids from Lake Malawi are a significant food source for local populations.
- Texture: Firm, white flesh.
- Cooking methods: Fried, Grilled, Stewed
- Nutritional value: Good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Key Facts
Color-Changing Masterbehavior
Maylandia crabro is famous for its rapid and dramatic color changes, switching between a bright yellow and black striped pattern and a dark, almost black, coloration in seconds.
Catfish Mimicrybehavior
One of the most remarkable behaviors of M. crabro is its mimicry of the predatory catfish Bagrus meridionalis. When in its dark phase, it can approach and prey on the eggs and fry of other cichlids, which would normally flee from a yellow-striped cichlid but not from a 'catfish'.
Sexual Dimorphismbehavior
While both sexes can display the yellow and black pattern, dominant males often maintain this coloration more consistently, while subordinate males and females may switch to the dark phase more frequently, especially when stressed or hiding.
Mbuna Groupinteresting
Maylandia crabro belongs to the 'mbuna' group of cichlids, which translates to 'rock-dwelling' in the local Tonga language, accurately describing their habitat preference in Lake Malawi.
Mouthbrooderbehavior
Like many Lake Malawi cichlids, M. crabro is a maternal mouthbrooder. The female carries the fertilized eggs and fry in her mouth for several weeks until they are large enough to be released.
Safety Information
Handle with care- Safety level: caution
- Venomous: No
- Edibility: not recommended
- Handling notes: No venomous spines. However, like all cichlids, they possess sharp dorsal and anal fin spines that can cause minor punctures if handled carelessly. Their aggressive nature means they can bite if threatened, though bites are not dangerous to humans. Use a net for handling.
Similar Species
Yellow Lab Cichlid
Labidochromis caeruleus
While also yellow, L. caeruleus typically has a black dorsal fin and lacks the prominent black vertical bars of M. crabro. It also does not exhibit the dramatic color change to a dark phase.
Zebra Cichlid
Maylandia zebra (complex)
Many species within the Maylandia zebra complex have vertical bars, but their base coloration is typically blue, not yellow. They also do not exhibit the same rapid color change to a dark phase as M. crabro.
Bagrus meridionalis (juvenile)
Bagrus meridionalis
M. crabro mimics this catfish species. The catfish has barbels and a different fin structure, but the dark coloration of M. crabro can be strikingly similar to juvenile B. meridionalis, especially in terms of overall dark body and fin color.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Cichliformes
- Family
- Cichlidae
- Genus
- Maylandia
- Species
- M. crabro
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