Metriaclima sp. pyrsonotos

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Metriaclima sp. pyrsonotos, also sold under the common name Albino, is a mbuna cichlid associated with the rocky shores of Lake Malawi. Its sturdy body, territorial behavior, and mainly plant-based diet make it better suited to aquarists already familiar with African cichlids. The term “Albino” is used in the trade for a very pale form, but it should not automatically be interpreted as complete albinism. Like many mbuna, it appreciates a mineral-rich layout with plenty of shelter, alkaline water, and strong filtration. Its commercial rarity is low: it is generally considered very common in the specialized aquarium trade.

General species description

Metriaclima sp. pyrsonotos belongs to the mbuna group, cichlids that live among the rocks of Lake Malawi and graze algae-covered surfaces. The working name Metriaclima sp. indicates a population or form being kept under a provisional name rather than a fully specified species name in this context. In an aquarium, it is best maintained in a structured group, with several females per male when the sex ratio is known. The male defends a small area between the rocks, especially during breeding, while females incubate the eggs in their mouths. Population management is important because chasing can become intense in a layout that is too open. This fish suits a rocky African cichlid aquarium, but not an ordinary freshwater community tank. Vigorous filtration and stable water conditions are essential for supporting its activity and reducing stress.

Geographic origin and biotope

This form is associated with Lake Malawi, in the southern part of the basin located on the Tanzanian side. Its habitat is typical of rocky shorelines where mbuna find crevices, spawning sites, and surfaces rich in periphyton. The water is generally warm, alkaline, and mineral-rich, with good oxygen availability in areas affected by water movement. The underwater landscape is dominated by boulders and rock slabs, with crevices rather than a muddy bottom. Aquatic vegetation is usually limited in these rocky areas; food mainly comes from the biological film covering the stones. In an aquarium, use a stable rock structure without sharp edges, with visual barriers and several territories. The country reference for this population is Tanzania, although Lake Malawi also extends through Malawi and Mozambique.

Specific locality and local name

The most commonly used aquarium and trade name is Metriaclima sp. pyrsonotos, sometimes accompanied by “Albino.” The term pyrsonotos refers to the idea of a fire back, a descriptive name used for this form within the mbuna trade. A precise locality should not be assigned without the original strain or collector information, since trade names can group fish from different lineages. In the hobby, identification is therefore often based on the combination of the working name, coloration, and stated origin. To preserve the value of the name, keep the complete strain label and avoid crossing it with other Metriaclima. No distinct Tanzanian vernacular name is retained here; “Albino” remains the main common name associated with the aquarium form. This cautious approach helps reduce confusion with other pale mbuna or commercial hybrids.

Appearance and physical characteristics

The body of Metriaclima sp. pyrsonotos is compact, laterally compressed, and suited to movement between rocks. The form sold as Albino has a very pale coloration, often whitish to pinkish, with pale fins and eyes that may appear reddish depending on pigmentation. This appearance contrasts with the more strongly colored patterns found in related wild forms. As in many mbuna, the mouth is inferior and the teeth are used to scrape algae and periphyton from rock surfaces. The dorsal and anal fins are well developed, and mature males may show egg spots on the anal fin. Adult size remains moderate for a Lake Malawi cichlid, but the body is robust. Color varies with sex, social rank, age, and emotional state; a subordinate fish may become duller. The most distinctive feature of this name is therefore the albino or strongly depigmented coloration, rather than a unique structural trait.

General diet

The diet of Metriaclima sp. pyrsonotos should be based mainly on plant matter. In nature, mbuna graze on periphyton, algae, and the small organisms living in that film. In an aquarium, offer quality flakes or pellets formulated for herbivorous mbuna, supplemented with foods containing algae or plant ingredients. Small portions offered several times daily support digestion and reduce competition. Rich animal-protein foods should remain occasional, since an overly meaty diet may cause digestive problems in these fish. Blanched vegetables such as zucchini or spinach can be used as a supplement, but should not replace a complete food. Remove leftovers promptly to protect water quality. A varied diet clearly centered on plant material supports coloration, growth, and natural grazing behavior. Avoid overfeeding as well, especially in a densely stocked aquarium.

Essential data

• Origin river: Lake Malawi, a lacustrine habitat
• Local name used: Metriaclima sp. pyrsonotos; Albino
• Origin of the scientific name: Metriaclima sp. identifies a cichlid placed in the genus Metriaclima without a definitive specific epithet in this name
• Full-name etymology: pyrsonotos comes from Greek and evokes a “fire back”; sp. means species, indicating an unspecified species
• Common/vernacular names: Albino; Pyrsonotos
• Family: Cichlidae
• Subfamily: Pseudocrenilabrinae
• Name pronunciation: meh-tree-ah-KLEE-mah - sp. pir-so-NOH-toss
• Discovery:
• Maximum adult size: About 10 cm
• Water temperature and pH: 24 to 28 °C; pH 7.6 to 8.6
• Watercourse appearance and surrounding vegetation: Rocky lake shore, clear alkaline water, generally sparse aquatic vegetation
• Typical tankmates: Labidochromis caeruleus Nkhata Bay, Pseudotropheus socolofi, Iodotropheus sprengerae, Maylandia callainos, Melanochromis auratus, Labeotropheus trewavasae
• Temperament and behavior: Territorial, active, and potentially quarrelsome; maintain an appropriate social structure
• Water depth: Shallow to intermediate rocky shoreline zone
• Sexual dimorphism: Males are generally more colorful and territorial; females are often duller; separation can be difficult in the albino form
• Bottom structure and flow: Boulders, crevices, and grazing surfaces; moderate to strong water movement

For greater success

To succeed with Metriaclima sp. pyrsonotos, set up a rocky aquarium with several visual barriers and shelters of different sizes. Warm, alkaline, stable water combined with generous filtration matters more than an overloaded decoration. Watch for chasing, especially after introducing a new fish, and feed mainly a plant-based mbuna formula. Avoid tankmates that are too peaceful or have incompatible dietary needs. Regular water changes, a carefully planned population, and avoiding overfeeding will improve long-term results. The pale coloration of the Albino form also makes changes in condition easy to see, so observe appetite, breathing, and fin condition every day.