Tropheops cichlid

Pseudotropheus tropheops

Family : Cichlidae

FishFreshwaterMbuna

Pseudotropheus tropheops is a medium-sized mbuna with highly variable coloration among populations. It is endemic to Lake Malawi and common in the aquarium trade.

Popularity
Biotope specialist
requires biotope recreation
Availability
Specialty only
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern
Biotope
Lake Malawi
Lac africain, eau dure alcaline, cichlidés endémiques.

Description

Males reach 10–12 cm and often show blue, yellow or orange coloration with variable patterns. Females are usually duller. Their mouth is downward-facing for grazing algae. They are territorial and aggressive, especially during breeding. They live in groups in rocky areas. Reproduction is by maternal mouthbrooding. Several geographic forms exist.

Habitat

Region :

Rocky shores and coastal areas

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2428 °C
pH7.58.5
GH1020 °dGH
KH812 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 20 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 0.5 mg/L

Care

Difficulty
3/5
Diet
Herbivore
Min. tank
150 L
Min. group
6
Adult size
12 cm
Lifespan
7 years
Temperament
Aggressive
Propagation
maternal mouthbrooder

Care notes

Temperature 24–28°C, pH 7.5–8.5, GH 10–20. A minimum 150-liter tank is recommended for a group. Herbivorous diet (spirulina, vegetables). Avoid overly peaceful fish. Provide rocks and hiding places. Change 20% water weekly. Strong filtration. Compatible with other robust mbunas.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References