Description

The White Tail Acei (Pseudotropheus acei “ngara”) is a strikingly beautiful Mbuna cichlid native to Lake Malawi, specifically the Ngara and Karonga areas. Known for its vibrant blue color and characteristic white fins, this species is an active, mildly aggressive fish that thrives in groups. It is closely related to the Orange Top Moori (Gephyrochromis moorii) and is popular among aquarium enthusiasts due to its striking appearance and manageable care requirements.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Pseudotropheus acei “ngara”
• Common Name(s): White Tail Acei
• Family: Cichlidae
• Origin: Ngara and Karonga areas, Lake Malawi, Africa
• Price Range: $10–$20
• Lifespan: 5–10 years
• Max Size: Males up to 6 inches
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Mildly aggressive
• Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate
• Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons (larger for groups)
• Diet: Omnivore

Appearance

The White Tail Acei is known for its vivid blue body and white fins. The coloration can vary slightly between individuals, but the males typically display brighter and more intense colors than females. The males are also larger, reaching up to 6 inches, while the females tend to remain slightly smaller. The fish is adorned with “dummy eggs” on its ventral fins, with males having brighter spots compared to females.

Tank Setup and Water Parameters

To replicate the natural habitat of the White Tail Acei, you should set up an aquarium that mimics their rocky and sandy shoreline environment. Ideal water conditions and an appropriate tank setup are crucial for their well-being.

• Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 78–82°F (25–28°C)
  • pH: 7.8–8.6 (slightly alkaline)
  • Water Hardness: 10–12 dGH (moderately hard water)
• Aquarium Setup:
  • Substrate: Sandy or fine gravel
  • Decor: Rocks, Java Fern, Hygrophila, Vallisneria, Anubias, and sunken bogwood to replicate their natural habitat.
  • These cichlids prefer some plant matter in their tank, but they will occasionally graze on plants like Java Fern and Vallisneria.

Behavior and Tankmates

• Temperament:
  • Mildly aggressive by Mbuna standards.
  • Active and social, often found in small groups of 3–10 in the wild, though they can be kept in larger schools in captivity.
  • Occasional mock fights can occur, but they generally avoid full-scale battles.
• Tankmates:
  • The White Tail Acei does well with other mild-mannered Mbuna cichlids such as L. caeruleus, Gephyrochromis moorii, or other species with similar behavior.
  • Avoid keeping them with overly aggressive species or small, peaceful fish like Neon Tetras or Guppies.

Diet and Feeding

The White Tail Acei is an omnivore with a preference for plant matter in its diet, although it also requires protein to thrive. A varied diet is essential:

• Staples: High-quality spirulina flakes, spirulina-based cichlid sticks, and algae wafers.
• Treats: Live or frozen foods like brine shrimp can be offered occasionally.
• Vegetation: They enjoy grazing on plants such as Java Fern, Hygrophila, and Vallisneria, though plants should be chosen with the understanding that they may be nibbled on.

Breeding

• Mating Behavior:
  • The male will shimmy in front of the female to attract her attention.
  • The mating process occurs on a flat rock where the male and female swim together, lightly nipping at each other.
  • The female will deposit 20 to 80 eggs, which the male fertilizes immediately.
• Brooding:
  • The female is a maternal mouthbrooder, collecting the fertilized eggs in her mouth for 3-4 weeks until they hatch.
  • During this time, the female will not eat.
  • Some breeders remove the female or male to prevent the male from bumping the female and causing her to swallow her young prematurely.

Health Considerations

• Disease Resistance: The White Tail Acei is generally hardy, but like many cichlids, it can be susceptible to Malawi Bloat and other cichlid-specific diseases.
• Prevention: Maintaining excellent water quality, feeding a well-balanced diet, and minimizing stress are key to keeping this species healthy.

Conclusion

The White Tail Acei (Pseudotropheus acei “ngara”) is an attractive and relatively easy-to-care-for Mbuna cichlid, making it a great choice for beginner to intermediate hobbyists. Their vivid blue and white coloration, combined with their active nature and mildly aggressive temperament, makes them a dynamic addition to any Malawi cichlid tank. With proper care, they can live for 5–10 years, adding beauty and intrigue to your aquarium.