Pseudotropheus sp. "Acei" (locality Luwala Reef, Lake Malawi) is an Mbuna-type cichlid renowned for its beautiful metallic blue colouring, often combined with a characteristic yellow caudal or anal fin. This "Luwala" strain is particularly popular with aquarists for its bright colours and relative compatibility, although it retains the typical Mbuna behaviour.

Behaviour & care

• An active and territorial Mbuna, but the Acei form is considered more moderate than some other very aggressive Mbuna.
• It is recommended to keep it in a group, ideally one male for several females or a group with dominants.
• Provide compatible companions (other Mbuna of equivalent size or utaka), but avoid species that are too peaceful or much smaller, which could be harassed.

Diet

Omnivorous, mainly herbivorous:

• In the wild, mainly consumes aufwuchs (algae, biofilm) on wood and roots.
• In the aquarium: spirulina-rich flakes or granules, supplemented with a small amount of low-protein live or frozen food to avoid "Malawi bloat".

Water quality

• Ideal temperature: 22 - 26°C (some say up to 28°C) for this species.
• pH: 7.5 - 8.5 (hard alkaline water typical of Lake Malawi).
• Hardness (GH): high to very high (e.g. 12-16 °dGH or more); water must be well filtered and stable.

Setting & environment

• Sandy soil or fine gravel; rocky setting with cracks and hiding places. Acei also thrives on fallen roots and branches, as in the "wooded coastline" areas of Luwala.
• Minimum volume recommended: around 150-200 L or more for a group (120 cm in length is often mentioned for a trio) in a well-structured tank.
• Moderate current, good oxygenation, moderate to strong lighting depending on the plants, without overloading the tank with decoration.

Maintenance sheet

Aquabota tip

To take full advantage of the beautiful metallic blue colouration and clear fins of this Acei Luwala strain, choose :

• A dark background (charcoal grey or black) to bring out the metallic highlights.
• A diet rich in plants, avoiding excess animal proteins.
• A well-balanced group (e.g. 1 male to 2-3 females) to limit aggression.
• Introduce the fish after the tank is well cycled and mature, with effective filtration and regular water changes (~20%/week).
• Choose the right roommates, limiting the number of conspecifics or aggressive fish to avoid stress.

Shipping & delivery of live fish

The fish are shipped with care in secure isothermal packaging, with pure oxygen and, if necessary, a thermal gel-pack.

Delivery methods

• France Express - Secure delivery in France, Belgium and Luxembourg.
• In-store collection - Available from our shop in Sombreffe (Belgium).

Shipment organisation

• Orders closed: every Monday at 10.00 am.
• France: dispatches on Monday or Tuesday (depending on department), expected delivery between Tuesday and Thursday.
• Belgium & Luxembourg: dispatches on Monday and Tuesday, estimated delivery between Tuesday and Wednesday.