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Metriaclima ngarae (formerly known as Metriaclima sp."lanisticola north"), which has some geographical variants, can be found in the northwestern part of the lake between Kaporo and Chitimba Bay. The variant which is found in Chitimba Bay however is an independent species which is now called Metriaclima gallireyae (formerly also known as Metriaclima sp."lanisticola north"). They are living there in intermediate zones from rocks to sand and in sandy environments but only when there are shells in the area in which they can hide. This species is very similar to Metriaclima lanisticola but they are distinguished from this species by the clear black band that the males and females have in their dorsal fin. This variant can be found in the neighbourhood of Ngara. In the lake the males of these species can grow to 6 cm, in the aquarium however they can grow taller because of a good feeding. The males can then grow to about 9 cm, females grow to about 7 cm. Metriaclioma ngarae is a very peaceful cichlid, in general they are very tolerant against other inhabitants. You can best keep this species with big shells on the bottom of the aquarium and with multiple females and other peaceful species. In the lake they are seeking the sand for food and they eat algae which they find on the shells and rubble. In the aquarium they are comfortable with any food. They take everything they get offered, like spirulina pellets, mysis, artemia, cyclops and shrimp-peas mix. Food rich of algea like spirulina pellets or flakes is very important to them so this should not be missing on their menu. 
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