Causes
Mbuna are herbivores — they evolved eating algae from rocks. Feeding them protein-rich foods (bloodworms, beef heart, pellets with high meat content) causes intestinal blockage.
Stress from overcrowding or poor water quality also contributes.
Symptoms
Swollen abdomen, white stringy feces, refusing food, lethargy.
Fish often die within 7 days once bloat appears.
Treatment (Limited Success)
Metronidazole — dose 250mg per 10 gallons every 48 hours for 3 doses.
Epsom salt 1 tablespoon per 5 gallons.
Honest answer: by the time bloat is visible, treatment success is below 50%.
- ✦Spirulina-based pellets are safe and natural for mbuna
- ✦Spinach, zucchini, romaine lettuce — blanched and clipped to tank
- ✦Skip bloodworms, brine shrimp, and beef heart
Prevention is Everything
Feed only herbivore-formulated foods. Spirulina pellets are the gold standard.
Vegetable variety: blanched zucchini, romaine, peas, blanched spinach. Twice weekly.
Skip protein foods entirely except as rare treats — once monthly maximum.