Labeotropheus trewavasae is an mbuna with a unique overhanging upper lip for scraping algae. Many vivid color morphs from Lake Malawi await collectors.
Overview
Labeotropheus trewavasae is one of the most specialized mbuna from Lake Malawi, possessing a unique anatomical adaptation — a massive overhanging upper lip. This feature allows the fish to efficiently scrape algal biofilm from flat rock surfaces while keeping its body parallel to the substrate. It is precisely this mouth structure that gave the genus its name: "Labeotropheus" translates to "lip feeder."
The species was described and named in honor of Ethelwynn Trewavas, an outstanding British ichthyologist who made enormous contributions to the study of African lake cichlids. Adults reach 10–13 cm.
One of the main attractions of L. trewavasae is its enormous diversity of color morphs. At different locations around Lake Malawi, populations of this species display entirely different colorations: from classic blue with black bars to orange, red, and spotted (OB — orange blotch). The "Marmalade Cat" morph with its chaotic orange and black patches is especially popular among collectors. Males are generally more brightly colored than females, though in OB morphs sexual dimorphism is less pronounced.
In the wild, the fish inhabits the surge zone of rocky shorelines at depths of 1 to 20 meters — where waves create constant water movement and promote active algae growth on rocks.
Tank Requirements
A group of Labeotropheus trewavasae requires a tank of at least 150 liters. As with other mbuna, more space reduces aggression and improves the overall atmosphere in the tank.
Optimal water parameters:
- Temperature: 23–28 °C
- pH: 7.5–8.5
- GH: 10–20
The setup should replicate the rocky Lake Malawi biotope with abundant rocks. However, unlike many mbuna, flat and angled rock surfaces are particularly important for labeotropheus — these are where the fish prefers to graze, scraping algae. Place several flat rocks at various angles in the tank, and the fish will actively work them over.
Caves and crevices are also necessary for creating shelters and territories. Substrate should be sand or fine gravel. Live plants are not recommended — like most mbuna, labeotropheus tend to eat and uproot them.
Filtration should be powerful and provide good water movement. In the wild, this species lives in the surge zone with active current, and moderate flow in the aquarium will encourage natural behavior.
Feeding and Diet
Labeotropheus trewavasae is one of the most specialized herbivores among mbuna. In nature, nearly 100% of the diet consists of algal biofilm (aufwuchs) scraped from rocks.
In the aquarium, the diet should be strictly plant-based:
- Spirulina-based flakes and pellets — the foundation of the daily diet
- Blanched vegetables: zucchini, cucumber, spinach, lettuce
- Spirulina tablets — an excellent supplement
- Dried seaweed (nori) — the fish eagerly consume it
Strictly avoid foods high in animal protein (bloodworms, tubifex, meat). Labeotropheus are even more sensitive to protein overfeeding than many other mbuna, due to their strictly herbivorous specialization. Malawi bloat develops rapidly in this species and is often fatal.
Feed 2–3 times daily in small portions. Having algae-covered rocks in the tank provides the fish with an additional source of natural nutrition between feedings.
Care and Maintenance
Labeotropheus trewavasae is a fairly hardy species, provided proper feeding and stable water parameters are maintained.
Weekly water changes of 25–30% are mandatory. Monitor nitrate levels — they should not exceed 20 mg/l. Ammonia and nitrites must always be at zero.
The optimal group composition is one male to three or four females. Males are moderately territorial: less aggressive than Maylandia lombardoi or Melanochromis auratus, but still capable of harassing subdominant individuals.
Tip: aquarium lighting can be adjusted so that algae actively grow on certain rocks. Labeotropheus will eagerly work them over, displaying their unique feeding behavior — one of the most fascinating spectacles in the mbuna world.
Regularly inspect the fish. Faded coloration, clamped fins, refusal to eat, or abdominal swelling are signals of problems requiring immediate attention.
Compatibility
Labeotropheus trewavasae is a moderately aggressive mbuna, making tank mate selection somewhat easier compared to the most combative species.
Suitable companions:
- Mbuna of similar size and temperament: Labidochromis caeruleus, Pseudotropheus zebra, Cynotilapia afra
- Maylandia callainos — a peaceful mbuna that coexists well in a community setup
- Synodontis catfish: Synodontis petricola — calm bottom-dwelling companions
Not recommended:
- Highly aggressive species: Melanochromis auratus, Maylandia lombardoi — may overwhelm labeotropheus
- Species with similar body shape and coloration — trigger territorial conflicts
- Small and peaceful species — will be subjected to harassment
- Fish from other regions (South American cichlids, tetras) — incompatible in water parameters and temperament
Breeding
Labeotropheus trewavasae is a maternal mouthbrooder. Despite a relatively high breeding difficulty (compared to other mbuna), the fish reproduce successfully in the aquarium under proper conditions.
The main challenge is pair formation. Males can be very selective in choosing a partner, and females frequently refuse to spawn if they do not feel secure. Having multiple females in the group increases the chances of successful breeding.
Spawning follows the typical mbuna pattern: the male attracts a female by displaying his coloration near a chosen rock, the female lays eggs, picks them up in her mouth, and approaches the male's anal fin for fertilization via the egg spots (ocelli).
The female carries 10 to 30 eggs in her mouth for 18–21 days. During this period she does not eat. To improve fry survival, the brooding female can be moved to a separate tank.
Fry accept crushed spirulina flakes and baby brine shrimp from the first days. Juveniles grow relatively slowly compared to other mbuna, and the characteristic upper lip shape gradually develops as they mature.