This is a relatively active, yet friendly mbuna. Formerly classified as a Pseudotropheus species, G. acei prefers the deep sand over the rocks of Lake Malawi. They are found in groups of 3 to 7 in the sandy areas near tree trunks or branches. It seems that they feed mainly from the algae on the bark of tree stumps and branches that get washed into the lake. Males grow to 12 cm, while females can reach lengths of 10 cm. I have also read that spawns typically consist of up to 50 fry! This fish has a very pretty morphology of deep purple (with fluorescent blue on the jaw) with contrasting yellow fins and 1-3 yellow egg spots. In the aquarium, they prefer the upper portions, and will readily "mow" any live plants. The recommended food for this species is spirulina-containing flake food. 
