Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

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Tropheops macrophthalmus 'Chizumulu Island'.jpg

Tropheops sp. 'elongatus chizumulu' Chizumulu Island.jpg

Tropheops sp. 'red cheek' Chizumulu Island.jpg

Tropheops sp. 'red cheek' Chizumulu Island

Genus:	Tropheops
Biotope:	Wave-washed rocky habitat with medium-sized rounded rocks in sediment-free areas, most common from the surface to about 6 m depth, with rare records down to 19 m.
Geographic distribution:	Likoma Island, Chizumulu Island and the Nankumba Peninsula between Tsano Rock and Zambo Point in Lake Malawi. An introduced population from Likoma Island is established at Thumbi West Island.
Typical adult size:	Approximately 11–13 cm TL.
Sexual dimorphism:	Males are larger, with longer fins and larger anal ocelli. Males show a metallic grey body with a warm ochre to orange patch on the head and anterior region, while females are differently colored and resemble those of Tropheops macrophthalmus.
Recommended aquarium size:	An aquarium volume of at least 400 L is recommended, with a minimum tank length of around 2 m to maintain more than one active male.
Aquarium setup:	Provide abundant rock structures with numerous shelters and open sandy areas. A strong water current is required. Water should be alkaline and moderately hard, maintained with regular water changes and filter cleaning.
Diet:	Feeds mainly on algal bio-cover (aufwuchs) and plankton. It crops attached algae using tightly set teeth and characteristic body jerks to dislodge filamentous growth. In aquarium, a diet rich in vegetable matter is required.
Breeding:	Maternal mouth-brooder. Males excavate a pit beneath a stone and court females by displaying and quivering movements before leading them to the spawning site. Spawning lasts several hours, with egg deposition taking less than one hour. Incubation lasts about 3 weeks.
Aggression:	Highly territorial and very aggressive, especially toward conspecific males. Males defend the upper surfaces of rocks and chase intruders from their territories.
Special notes:	Distinguished by a high, squarish body and angular head. The bright orange patch on the head and shoulders of males has given rise to the name “red cheek”.