How big does a Red Fin Cichlid get?

They can reach 14 cm, making them one of the larger Mbuna species. A minimum of 250 litres is recommended.

Is the Red Fin Cichlid aggressive?

Yes, they are territorial Mbuna. Overstock the tank and provide abundant rock formations to diffuse aggression. Keep 1 male with 3+ females.

What should I feed a Red Fin Cichlid?

Spirulina flakes, algae wafers, cichlid pellets, and blanched vegetables. They are herbivores — avoid high-protein foods to prevent bloat.

Can I breed Red Fin Cichlids?

Yes, they are maternal mouthbrooders that breed readily in captivity. Provide rock caves for the female to retreat to while holding.

Tropheops tropheops

Red Fin Cichlid (Tropheops tropheops)

Name: Red Fin Cichlid (Tropheops tropheops)
Brand: Tropical Fish Co
SKU: 0807
Price: 6.99 GBP
Availability: PreOrder

Moderate Care

Aggressive

£6.99 – £9.99In Stock

Size

An active, colourful rock-dwelling Mbuna cichlid from Lake Malawi with vibrant red finnage. Hardy and adaptable. Available with live arrival guarantee.

AggressiveCichlid MalawiCichlidaeFishLive FishMbunaModerate Caresite:tropical-fish-co

Care at a Glance

Scientific Name

Tropheops tropheops

Adult Size

14 cm

Lifespan

8 years

Care Level

Moderate

Temperament

Aggressive

Temperature

24–28°C

pH Range

7.5–8.5

Hardness

10–25 dGH

Minimum Tank

250L

Diet

Spirulina flakes, algae wafers, cichlid pellets, blanched vegetables

Water Parameters

Maintain these water conditions for optimal health and vibrant colors

Temperature

24–28°C

24°CIdeal Range28°C

pH Level

7.5–8.5

7.5Ideal Range8.5

Water Hardness

10–25 dGH

10 dGHIdeal Range25 dGH

The Red Fin Cichlid (Tropheops tropheops) is an active, colourful Mbuna endemic to Lake Malawi, where it prefers areas with rocky substrates. This species can reach 14 cm and is known for its vibrant red fins and territorial rock-dwelling behaviour. A hardy and popular choice for Malawi aquariums.

Care at a Glance

Scientific Name	Tropheops tropheops
Family	Cichlidae
Origin	Lake Malawi, East Africa
Care Level	Moderate
Temperament	Aggressive
Adult Size	14 cm
Minimum Tank Size	250 litres
Temperature	24–28°C
pH Range	7.5–8.5
Water Hardness	10–25 dGH
Diet	Spirulina flakes, algae wafers, cichlid pellets, blanched vegetables
Lifespan	8 years
Tank Region	Middle
Group Size	1 male with 3+ females, overstock to reduce aggression

Origin & Natural Habitat

Endemic to Lake Malawi, East Africa. Prefers areas with rocky substrates where it grazes on aufwuchs (algae and associated organisms). Can reach 14 cm in total length. Maternal mouthbrooder that breeds readily in captivity.

Tank Setup & Water Parameters

Provide a minimum of 250 litres. Maintain water between 24–28°C with pH 7.5–8.5 and hardness 10–25 dGH. Create abundant rock formations to provide territories and reduce aggression. Overstock to spread territorial behaviour.

Feeding Guide

Herbivore. Offer spirulina flakes, algae wafers, cichlid pellets, and blanched vegetables. Avoid high-protein foods to prevent Malawi bloat.

Compatible Tank Mates

Good companions include other Mbuna and Synodontis. Avoid peaceful Haps, Peacocks, small fish, and shrimp. Consider the Lwanda Peacock Cichlid or Cobue Dogtooth Cichlid from our collection.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co?

At Tropical Fish Co, every fish is carefully selected and shipped with care across the UK. Live arrival guarantee, expert advice, and competitive prices. Order your Red Fin Cichlid today.

Licensed Courier

Moved by UK carriers licensed to handle live animals

Trained Packing

Hand-packed with oxygen bags, poly box, heat pack

Live Arrival Guarantee

Replacement or refund — just tell us the same day

Pay Later Available

Klarna & PayPal Pay in 3 at checkout

How your fish gets to you

Dispatched Tuesday, delivered Wednesday — every order tracked and insured.

Dispatched on Tuesdays by a UK courier legally licensed to carry live animals. You’ll get a tracking number on dispatch morning and live updates through the afternoon.
Hand-packed in an insulated poly box with oxygen bags and (Oct–Apr) 40-hour heat packs. £20 flat rate covers any number of fish.
Covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee. Tell us the same day your fish arrive with a short unboxing video — replacement or refund, no arguments. Why we need a video
You need to be home.Live fish cannot be left on doorsteps or with neighbours — it kills them. Please only order for days when someone will be in to sign.

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