Albino Red Top Zebra

Albino Red Top Zebra

The Albino Red Top Zebra Cichlid are an Albino form of the Metriclima greshaki that are native only to the reefs of Lake Malawi in Africa. While they are plentiful in their habitat, they are considered vulnerable because of their limited range.

Mbuna is a Tonga word meaning “rockfish,” and like all mbuna species, zebras can be found in the wild scouring large, rock reefs for algae and other small organisms. In captivity, they appreciate a tank that replicates their home environment. They like a lot of rocks in the aquarium to feel secure. They will dart in and out of the crevices, establish territories, and graze for algae if the tank is to their liking. Albino zebras can also also be quite picky about water quality. Their native water has a very high oxygen and dissolved mineral content and they need a high pH to thrive in the home aquarium. Adding an airstone or heavy circulation is recommended to keep the oxygen levels in the water high. There are also several commercial mixes available that replicate the water chemistry of the Africa Great Lakes. Adding rocks such as limestone to buffer and harden the water is also a good way to keep conditions favorable for them. Albino zebras also need low levels of dissolved pollutants to remain healthy. Doing large, frequent water changes is necessary to keep Albino zebras happy and healthy. Otherwise, they can become susceptible to disease. Plants are most likely not a great idea as they will consume many of them, and most plants do not do well in the conditions these fish require. However, hardy plants such as Java fern, Java moss, and Anubias species can be kept successfully. Otherwise, use artificial plants to add some greenery to their tank