Orange Blotch - Zebra OB 4cm

Orange Blotch - Zebra OB

The Orange Blotch Zebra, often referred to as the OB Zebra, is a spectacular and unpredictable colour morph of the Metriaclima zebra cichlid species, originating from Lake Malawi. This fish is highly sought after for its fiery orange background splashed with irregular black or dark blue blotches, resulting in a one-of-a-kind visual spectacle. Each individual OB is different, making them a living piece of aquatic art and a favourite among African cichlid keepers.

What makes the OB Zebra truly fascinating is not only the explosive contrast of colour, but also their bold presence in the tank. The “OB” stands for "orange blotch" and was originally only present in female specimens. However, through selective breeding, these colours have now been passed onto males too. The same genetic trait is also seen in other African cichlid species, too as Malawi peacocks. These cichlids generally reach around 12 cm and develop stronger colours with age and dominance. Males tend to show more intense colouring, while females have a more mottled, dusty appearance but are still striking in their own right.

Breeding OB Zebras is straightforward and a fantastic project for intermediate aquarists. They are maternal mouthbrooders, meaning the female will carry the fertilised eggs in her mouth for about three weeks before releasing free-swimming fry. A ratio of one male to several females is best to reduce aggression and promote breeding. Provide lots of rock work for hiding and territory establishment to reduce tension in the tank.

Tank Recommendations for your Orange Blotch - Zebra OB

A tank of at least 180 litres is recommended for a group, with plenty of rocky formations, caves, and crevices to allow each fish to establish its own space. These are active and territorial fish that benefit from large footprints in aquariums. A sandy substrate is ideal, and the water should be hard and alkaline with strong filtration and consistent temperature.

As the orange blotch mbuna only reaches around 10 cm, an adult pair of these fish can easily be kept in a tank of around 120 litres. They will, however, thrive in larger aquariums when kept in a colony of 6 or more.  Since these cichlids spend a lot of time near the bottom of the aquarium, it is best to ensure there is a decent footprint.

Orange Blotch mbunas can be territorial, especially during breeding time; however, their aggression is quite minimal compared to other African cichlids. They should be provided with a plentiful supply of caves for security and just to diffuse the minimal aggression. These are also tropical fish that are best kept at 24-26 degrees with a pH of 7.0-8.5

Suitable Tank Buddies

The orange blotch mbunas can be kept with a range of other Mbuna species and relatively peaceful African cichlids. Since these fish require a higher PH of around 8 the tank mates chosen should be adaptable to this.

Usually Compatible

Yellow lab cichlids, red zebra cichlids, Malawi peacocks, and smaller-sized hap cichlids.

Sometimes Compatible

Frontosa, larger haps like Malawi trout and other large, semi-aggressive fish. 

Rarely Compatible

Aggressive African cichlid species like fuscodichromis and polystigma. South American cichlids should also be avoided.

Feeding your Orange Blotch - Zebra OB

Orange blotch mbunas will take aquarium foods very easily. They will take a wide range of pellets, flakes, and frozen foods. By giving them a varied diet, it ensures that they have optimal nutrition.  The ideal diet would be good quality, small and slow food, supplemented with green matter like algae flakes or sheets.