Tropheops Cichlid (Tropheops tropheops)

A rock-grazing Lake Malawi mbuna, sold as single fish

Tropheops tropheops is a rock-dwelling mbuna from Lake Malawi that grazes the algae film (aufwuchs) on rocks. It is a variable species: colour depends on population, sex and mood, and fish sold under this name range from yellow and orange with dark blotches to brown-grey; mature males often darken with blue-grey and yellow tones. FishBase gives a maximum length of about 14 cm.

This listing sells single, unsexed fish of the plain Tropheops tropheops form — not the red-finned form, which is a separate listing.

What you receive

Choose a size, then the quantity. One quantity is one live fish of the size selected, unsexed. Colour develops with age and varies between fish; photos are representative of the species, not the exact fish you will receive.

Aquarium and water

Plan a purpose-built Malawi aquarium of about 250 litres or more, with plenty of rockwork forming caves and territories, open sand and strong filtration. Keep hard, alkaline water — 24–26°C, pH 7.8–8.5 and 10–20 dGH — with regular partial water changes.

Feeding

An algae grazer: feed a vegetable-based flake or pellet with spirulina as the staple, in small portions, and avoid rich high-protein foods, which can cause digestive problems in mbuna.

Tank mates and behaviour

Territorial, especially males and especially towards similar-looking fish. Keep with other robust mbuna of similar size in a well-stocked rock aquarium, ideally one male with several females. Not suitable for a community of small peaceful fish.

Follow the arrival sequence before releasing the fish

Tropical Fish Co’s delivery and Live Arrival Guarantee policy explains the packing and arrival procedure. Livestock is hand-bagged in pure oxygen and placed in an insulated poly box, with a heat pack when the weather calls for it. Someone must be at the address to receive the parcel because live animals cannot be left unattended.

1. Receive the parcel in person. If filming, start before opening it and show the parcel still sealed with the outer box visible.
2. Open the parcel. If filming, use one continuous take until the fish can be seen inside the sealed bag before anything is disturbed.
3. Float the bag for 20–30 minutes so the temperature equalises slowly.
4. Do not pour the bag water into the aquarium. Release the fish without adding transport water to the established system.

If a Live Arrival Guarantee claim is required, contact us on the same day with the order number and clear photos or an optional continuous unboxing video. Before the parcel arrives, confirm that ammonia and nitrite read zero and that the aquarium matches the water values on this page. We strongly recommend an unboxing video when practical: it helps us resolve arrival concerns faster, investigate packing or transit issues and reduce recurrence. Video is optional and clear photos are accepted. Never delay necessary animal care to record evidence.

Frequently asked questions

Is this the red-finned Tropheops?

No. This listing is the plain Tropheops tropheops form. The red-finned form is sold as a separate listing.

Is this a pair?

No. One quantity is one unsexed fish of the size selected.

How big does it grow?

Up to about 14 cm.

What water does it need?

Hard, alkaline Malawi conditions: 24–26°C, pH 7.8–8.5 and 10–20 dGH.

Public references

• FishBase: Tropheops tropheops — identity, native range, water values and size.
• RSPCA aquarium environment guidance — biological filtration and the aquarium nitrogen cycle.