Tropheops Red Fin Care Guide
The Tropheops Red Fin is a rock-dwelling mbuna from Lake Malawi, traded as Tropheops sp. "Red Fin". It is an aggressive algae-grazer and maternal mouthbrooder.
Overview
The Tropheops Red Fin is a rock-dwelling cichlid (mbuna) from Lake Malawi, traded as Tropheops sp. "Red Fin". Tropheops is a genus of haplochromine mbuna endemic to Lake Malawi. Dominant males of this form are deep blue with bright red fins.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Tropheops
- Scientific name: Tropheops sp. "Red Fin"
- Note: undescribed trade form
Habitat
Tropheops are endemic to Lake Malawi, living among highly rocky areas around islands and rocky outcrops with caves and crevices. They occupy the shallow rocky zone and graze the algae growing on the rocks.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 300 L
- Temperature: 24-27 °C (75-81 °F)
- pH: 7.8-8.6
- GH: 10-20 °dGH
- Substrate: sand with rocks arranged into caves and crevices
- Lifespan: 6-10 years
Diet
The Tropheops Red Fin is a herbivore. In the lake Tropheops feed mainly by pecking the strands of algae (aufwuchs) growing on rocks, so a plant-based diet such as spirulina foods is appropriate; too much animal protein can cause bloating.
Compatibility
This is an aggressive, territorial mbuna for experienced keepers, belligerent toward other species and intolerant of rival males. Suitable companions include Synodontis petricola, Synodontis multipunctatus and other mbuna of similar aggression. Gentle fish such as Discus, angelfish, tetras, Apistogramma and rams, and peaceful mbuna, should be avoided. Arranging rocks to break lines of sight helps reduce aggression.
Breeding
Tropheops are maternal mouthbrooders; the female incubates the eggs for around three weeks before releasing free-swimming fry.