Tropheus sp. "Ikola" Care Guide

Ikola geographic population of the Lake Tanganyika genus Tropheus, a herbivorous mouthbrooding cichlid that must be kept in a large colony.

Overview

The genus Tropheus comprises cichlids endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. "Ikola" denotes one of the many geographic populations of the genus, named after a locality on the lake. All Tropheus are algae-grazing fish best kept as larger colonies; the genus is popular in the hobby but is considered difficult to maintain.

Taxonomy

• Family: Cichlidae
• Genus: Tropheus
• Scientific name: Tropheus sp. "Ikola"
• Status: undescribed geographic form

Habitat

Tropheus species are endemic to Lake Tanganyika and inhabit rocky shoreline zones where they rasp algae from submerged rocks. The lake is characterised by hard, alkaline water, which is reflected in the parameters required in captivity.

Tank requirements

• Minimum tank volume: 400 L for a colony
• Temperature: 24-27 °C (75-81 °F)
• pH: 8.5-9.2
• GH: 12-25 °dGH
• Colony size: 12 or more individuals
• Lifespan: 8-12 years

Diet

Tropheus are herbivores with underslung mouths adapted to rasping algae and microinvertebrates from submerged rocks. Captive diets should be vegetable-based, such as spirulina flakes, blanched spinach or nori. Animal-protein foods such as beef heart must be avoided because they interfere with the digestive system and are linked to the often-fatal condition known as "bloat".

Compatibility

Tropheus are relatively peaceful toward other species but squabble strongly among conspecifics, forming a pecking order through fighting. Groups of only a few fish do not settle and may fight to the death, so a larger colony is required to distribute aggression. High water quality is essential because the fish are very susceptible to bloat.

Breeding

All Tropheus are maternal mouthbrooders: females carry the eggs and fry in their mouths, in this genus for over four weeks before releasing free-swimming fry, and may continue feeding during incubation. Sexual dimorphism is subtle, with males growing slightly larger.