Blunthead Cichlid
NameBlunthead Cichlid
Scientific NameTropheops tropheops
Common NamesBlunthead Cichlid, Tropheops Cichlid
FamilyCichlidae
OriginLake Malawi, Africa
Temperamentaggressive
Dietherbivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)5
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)76-82
pH Range7.8-8.6
Compatible SpeciesOther robust Lake Malawi Mbuna cichlids (e.g., Pseudotropheus, Labidochromis, Melanochromis), Synodontis catfish
Description
The Blunthead Cichlid is a vibrant and territorial Mbuna cichlid native to the rocky shores of Lake Malawi. Males display striking colors and can be quite aggressive, especially towards conspecifics or similarly shaped fish. They are primarily herbivorous, grazing on algae and biofilm in their natural habitat.
