Melanochromis

The golden mbuna, Melanochromis auratus, is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi, common down the western coast and along the southern end of the lake. One of the most aggressive and territorial mbuna, it is not recommended for the beginner. Mature males turn dark, unlike the golden females and juveniles, and older females often darken until they superficially resemble males. Other Melanochromis should not be kept with it, as they may hybridise.

Melanochromis chipokae is an mbuna endemic to Lake Malawi, found only around Chindunga Rocks, a reef just off the island of Chipoka. One of the predatory 'pike auratus' group, it eats fry as well as crustaceans and algae. Females and juvenile males are easily confused with M. auratus, but have a more pointed mouth and a fully striped caudal fin. Arguably the most aggressive mbuna, it is not recommended for the beginner.

Melanochromis lepidiadaptes is an mbuna endemic to Lake Malawi, found only in a limited area around Makanjila Point on the eastern side. Originally sold as M. fuscus and then M. sp. 'lepidophage', it apparently feeds almost solely on the scales of other species in nature, though not other mbuna. Relatively peaceful for a Melanochromis, it suits a Lake Malawi aquarium with cichlids of similar size and disposition.