Rocky and intermediate sediment-rich habitats,
usually at depths of 5–20 m.
Geographic distribution:
Rare at Makulawe Point (Likoma Island) but common at
the northeastern end of Likoma Island; also recorded along the
mainland shore between Undu Reef (Tanzania) and Cobwé
(Mozambique).
Typical adult size:
Males up to 9 cm total length; females up to
7 cm.
Sexual dimorphism:
Females are bluish brown; males are larger and
more intensely colored.
Recommended aquarium size:
An aquarium volume of at least 300 L with a
minimum tank length of 120 cm is recommended.
Aquarium setup:
Provide ample rock structures and shelters to
reduce aggression and allow weaker individuals to retreat.
Diet:
Feeds on algae, diatoms and associated
microorganisms from the aufwuchs.
Aggression:
Aggressive within the species; toward other
species mainly during spawning.
Special notes:
An elongate southern Tropheops formerly
included in the Pseudotropheus elongatus species
group. Closely resembles Tropheops sp. ‘elongatus chizumulu’,
but differs in head shape and habitat preference.
Photo gallery