Kasaba Tropheus

Tropheus kasabae

FishFreshwater

Tropheus kasabae has a robust body with a bright orange-yellow base and bold black vertical bars. Males are more colorful. They are herbivorous, feeding on aufwuchs. They are highly aggressive and need large groups. They are maternal mouthbrooders. Endemic to the Kasaba Bay area of Lake Tanganyika. They are near threatened due to limited distribution and collection. They require stable water conditions and a diet rich in plant matter.

Recommended parameters

ParameterRecommended range
Temperature24–27
pH8–9
GH10–20
KH12–18
NO₃≤ 20
PO₄≤ 0.5

Care

Difficulty4/5
Dietherbivore
Min. tank200 L
Min. group5
Adult size12 cm
Lifespan6.5 ans
TemperamentAggressive

Care notes

Tropheus kasabae requires a tank of at least 200 liters with plenty of rockwork. Water parameters: pH 8.0-9.0, temperature 24-27°C, GH 10-20, KH 12-18. Strict herbivorous diet: spirulina, blanched vegetables. Keep in groups of at least 5-6. Weekly water changes. Nitrate < 20 ppm. Near threatened species, prefer captive-bred. Compatible with other Tropheus. Strong filtration and moderate flow.