How difficult is it to keep Blunthead Cichlid?

Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.

What is the ideal temperature for Blunthead Cichlid?

The ideal temperature for Blunthead Cichlid is 23〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

How large does Blunthead Cichlid get?

Blunthead Cichlid typically reaches Up to about 14.5cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.

What should I feed Blunthead Cichlid?

Blunthead Cichlid feeds on: Spirulina flakes, blanched spinach, nori and other vegetable matter. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.

What is the typical price for Blunthead Cichlid?

The price of Blunthead Cichlid varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Blunthead Cichlid

Intermediate

Tropheus moorii

An algae-grazing cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika. More than 40 geographic colour morphs are known, ranging from dark green to flame red and yellow. Long-term success depends on keeping a group and feeding a vegetable-based diet.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Temperature

23〜27℃

Size

Up to about 14.5cm

Diet

Spirulina flakes, blanched spinach, nori and other vegetable matter

About

Tropheus moorii is a cichlid endemic to the rocky shores of Lake Tanganyika, reaching about 14.5cm. Isolation between rocky habitats has produced more than 40 colour morphs, from dark green through flame red to yellow. In the wild it grazes filamentous algae on shallow rocks, and in the aquarium the diet should be based on spirulina flakes, blanched spinach and nori, avoiding beefheart and other animal meats. It suits hard alkaline water of pH 8.0-9.5, 8-25 dGH and 23-27C. Conspecific squabbling is constant, so the standard approach is to introduce 20-30 fish at once to spread out the aggression, with 6-10 females per male. Breeding is maternal mouthbrooding: females hold roughly 5-20 eggs for about a month. The IUCN lists the species as Near Threatened.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Size of the Blunthead Cichlid

The Blunthead Cichlid grows to Up to about 14.5cm.

Temperature & humidity for the Blunthead Cichlid

The ideal temperature for the Blunthead Cichlid is 23〜27℃.

Basic Info

Origin

Africa: endemic to Lake Tanganyika

Size

Up to about 14.5cm

Temperature

23〜27℃

Diet

Spirulina flakes, blanched spinach, nori and other vegetable matter

Care Specifications

pH: 8–9.5
Hardness (GH): 8–25 dGH
Water Temp.: 23–27℃
Min. Tank: 108 L

Semi-aggressiveGroupBreeding: Moderate

Sources: Seriously Fish: Tropheus moorii / FishBase: Tropheus moorii

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team

The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Tropheus moorii Boulenger, 1898

Authority databases: FishBase

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listedIUCN NT · Near Threatened

Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / IUCN Red List

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.