Tropheus
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[edit] General
Tropheus is a small genus of six species cichlid fish endemic to Lake Tanganyika in east Africa. Like all species from Lake Tanganyika their natural habitat is in hard, alkaline water. They typically occur in shallow, fast-moving water with numerous rocky outcroppings and boulders, a habitat similar to many of the the mbuna of Lake Malawi. All species are algal grazers and have underslung mouths adapted to rasping algae and microinvertebrates from submerged rocks. Males and females are relatively similar and do display obvious sexual dimorphism. All species are maternly mouthbrood their eggs and fry. The genus is popular with aquarium hobbyists.
[edit] Species
There are currently six species of Tropheus:
- Tropheus annectens Boulenger, 1900
- Tropheus brichardi Nelissen & Thys van den Audenaerde, 1975
- Tropheus duboisi Marlier, 1959
- Tropheus kasabae Nelissen, 1977
- Tropheus moorii Boulenger, 1898
- Tropheus polli Axelrod, 1977
[edit] In the Aquarium
Tropheus species are regarded by many cichlid keeping aquarists to be rather demanding to keep. As such they are not recommended for cichlid hobbyists without experience.
[edit] Feeding
The most popular commercial foods are high quality cichlid pellets, spirulina or vegetable flakes. The general consensus on feeding is to feed small amounts throughout the day. Improper feeding can lead to disease or death.
[edit] Bloat
A disease known as bloat is a very common in Tropheus with these fish and can be very destructive.
Bloat is purported to be caused from a flagellate (Cryptobia sp.) that causes intestinal problems in Tropheus. Affected fishes discharge white feces, may sway or have swim-bladder problems and frequently stop eating. Affected fish often die in few days with swollen abdomens bloated.
