Cherry Spot Tropheus

The Cherry Spot Tropheus is known from the central-eastern coast of Lake Tanganyika, where it is found amongst the rocky habitat, grazing algae in the sunlit shallows. Currently, these fishes are in need of classification and many of the forms are known as Tropheus sp. ‘Black’ or T. sp. ‘Red’ together with their location or common name. As hybridization may occur, it’s best to keep Tropheus in groups of their own kind and these should be large in number to spread the aggression. Housing 15 or more of these feisty fishes requires a large aquarium and this should be 1.5m or more in length to allow individuals to avoid one another. Smaller groups inevitably dwindle as harassment and bullying prove too much for females and weaker males. It is important that the entire group is added at the same time to avoid the aggression which would otherwise be directed towards any newcomers. When adding large numbers of fish in this manner, it’s important that the filtration is cycled and capable of handling the waste load. Given the investment involved, the use of a Hydra filter and bacterial inoculation with products such as Microbe-Lift are strongly advised. As always, water quality should be very carefully monitored over the first few weeks. Excellent water quality must be maintained at all times, with partial water changes carried out at least once or twice a week and this may require the addition of buffers to ensure the high pH and carbonate hardness levels required. Strong water movement will ensure high oxygen levels and helps to keep the fish fit and active.

Although Tropheus can be kept in fairly bare aquaria, several separate piles of rocks should be created (instead of a continuous rocky reef) so that individuals can more easily evade one another thanks to broken sight lines. Lighting should be bright to encourage the growth of algae over the décor, which these herbivores will enjoy browsing upon. Sharp rocks (such as lava rock) should not be used as they can cause damage to the mouths of these fishes as they graze.

• Species – Tropheus Bulu Point
• Common Name – Tropheus Cherry Spot
• Origin – Northern Lake Tanganyika, Africa
• Diet – Herbivore
• PH Range – 7.8 – 9.0
• Temperature – Tropical 22–28°c
• Breed Type – Mouth Brooder
• Current Size – approximately 5cm (Grows to approximately 12cm)
• Sex – MALE