How to Identify Four-stripe Cichlid

To identify Four-stripe Cichlid (Pseudotropheus zebra), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Highly variable. Common morphs include blue with black vertical bars (blue zebra), red/orange (red zebra), and solid blue (cobalt blue). Males are typically more intensely colored than females, especially during breeding. Some morphs exhibit yellow or white coloration. Egg spots are present on the anal fin of males.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Robust, laterally compressed body, Prominent, often thick lips, Vertical barring (though not always present in all morphs), Sexual dimorphism in coloration and size (males generally larger and more colorful)

Dorsal fin

Long, continuous dorsal fin with spiny anterior rays and soft posterior rays. Typically extends almost the entire length of the back.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is typically rounded to truncate.

Pectoral fin

Paired pectoral fins are relatively small and rounded.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin of males often features prominent 'egg spots' (ocelli), which play a role in breeding behavior.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for a robust, laterally compressed body typical of Mbuna cichlids.

2. 2

   Coloration and Pattern

   Observe the base color (blue, red, orange, yellow) and the presence or absence of vertical black bars. Note that coloration can vary significantly between morphs and sexes.

3. 3

   Egg Spots

   Males typically display prominent yellow or orange egg spots on their anal fin, which are less pronounced or absent in females.

4. 4

   Lip Structure

   Pseudotropheus zebra often has relatively thick, prominent lips, adapted for scraping algae from rocks.

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