Yellow Lab Cichlid (Labidochromis caeruleus)
Quarantined specialty cichlid for carefully planned freshwater aquariums in Canada.
The Yellow Lab Cichlid is one of the most recognized Lake Malawi mbuna, valued for its vivid naturally occurring yellow colour morph and relatively manageable temperament compared with many more aggressive mbuna. It is a classic choice for a planned African cichlid aquarium.
Why This Cichlid Stands Out
- Bright natural yellow Lake Malawi colour morph
- Recognizable mbuna species with strong search demand
- Active African cichlid for rocky hard-water setups
Aquarium Setup & Behaviour
Use a rocky Malawi aquarium with hard water and plenty of hiding places. These cichlids are active and prefer structured environments with caves and rock formations. They are generally peaceful within a properly sized group and do best in tanks with a minimum of 30 gallons.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Species | Labidochromis caeruleus |
| Origin | Lake Malawi, Africa |
| Temperament | Moderate to calm, social |
| Water Type | Hard, alkaline |
| Minimum Tank Size | 30 gallons |
FAQ
What is the ideal water condition for Yellow Lab Cichlids?
Yellow Lab Cichlids thrive in hard, alkaline water typical of Lake Malawi. A pH between 7.8 and 8.6 and water hardness of 8–12 dGH is recommended.
How many Yellow Lab Cichlids should I keep together?
They do best in groups of at least three to five to promote natural social behavior and reduce stress.
Are Yellow Lab Cichlids aggressive toward other fish?
They are generally peaceful compared to other mbuna species, but may show mild aggression during breeding or when space is limited.

Dan Simpson –
Bought this for my 40-gallon Malawi tank. The fish arrived healthy and stayed active. The yellow color is bright and stands out in the tank. Easy to care for and doesn’t stress the community fish. Great addition to a rocky setup.
Rose Mathis –
The fish is vibrant and active. I kept it with a few other mbuna and they get along well. Water parameters were stable, and the fish seems happy. A good choice for beginners in the mbuna group.
Matt Jones –
Perfect for a beginner African cichlid enthusiast. The yellow color is natural and striking. It’s not overly aggressive and enjoys the rock structure. I’ve kept it for six months and it’s still healthy and active.