Freshwater species
Golden Mbuna
Melanochromis auratus
A striking Lake Malawi mbuna also known as the Auratus. Golden Mbuna are hardy but highly territorial, so they need a large rocky aquarium, hard alkaline water, strong filtration, and carefully chosen cichlid tank mates.
Not currently listed on New Fish Day
We do not currently show Golden Mbuna on the New Fish Arrivals list. Weekly selection changes often.
Check New Fish ArrivalsQuick Care Information
- Adult size
- About 4 inches
- Temperature
- 75–79°F
- pH
- 7.5–8.5
- Minimum aquarium
- 5-foot aquarium
- Temperament
- Highly aggressive Malawi mbuna
- Group
- One male with several females
Before You Bring Them Home
Use these numbers as a starting point, not as a substitute for evaluating the whole aquarium. Tank dimensions, filtration, water stability, existing livestock, adult size, and behavior all matter when choosing fish or shrimp.
Read the Full Golden Mbuna Care Guide
Browse freshwater fish groups or contact Fins For Grins with questions about your setup.