Labeotropheus trewavasae 'Thumbi West'

Labeotropheus trewavasae 'Thumbi West' originates from Thumbi West Island in the southern basin of Lake Malawi. Males display electric-blue flanks paired with a vivid orange dorsal fin — a two-toned colour pattern that makes this locale especially attractive. OB morphs, carrying irregular orange blotch patterning, are well represented in this population. Females are typically orange-brown with faint mottling.

The distinctive underslung snout with a modified subrostral disc allows L. trewavasae to grip rock surfaces and graze algae even in turbulent near-surface wave zones inaccessible to most other cichlids. Highly territorial, this species requires a 1M:3–4F harem structure in a 200+ L tank with abundant rockwork. An exclusively algae-based diet is mandatory, as any animal protein introduction risks Malawi bloat. Maternal mouthbrooding females hold eggs and fry for approximately 21–28 days.

Water: 24–28°C, pH 7.8–8.5, hard (GH 10–25, KH 6–15); slightly higher flow rates acceptable to replicate surge zone origin. Tank: 200 L minimum; rough, stacked rockwork; a small powerhead to create gentle current replicates natural habitat. Feeding: Algae-only — spirulina flake, algae pellets, algae wafers; blanched greens optional; no meaty foods. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; OB morphs may appear in offspring; female holds 21–28 days; isolate to protect fry. Compatibility: Mixed mbuna tanks; prevent hybridisation by not keeping multiple L. trewavasae locales together.