Shuja horei
NameShuja horei
Scientific NameTropheus moorii
Common NamesRed Spot Tropheus, Bemba Tropheus, Moorii Cichlid, Shuja Tropheus
FamilyCichlidae
OriginLake Tanganyika, East Africa
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietherbivore
Care Leveladvanced
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)5.5
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)75-82
pH Range8.0-9.0
Compatible SpeciesOther Tropheus species (in large, established groups), Petrochromis species, Eretmodus cyanostictus, Spathodus marlieri
Description
The Tropheus moorii, often known by variants like the Red Spot or Bemba Tropheus, is a highly active and territorial cichlid endemic to the rocky shores of Lake Tanganyika. They are obligate herbivores, primarily grazing on aufwuchs (algae and microorganisms) from rocks. Keeping them requires specific high pH water parameters, a specialized diet, and careful management of their aggressive tendencies, especially towards conspecifics.
