Thoracochromis brauschi

Thoracochromis brauschi is a medium-to-large cichlid from Lake Edward, the rift lake immediately west of Lake Victoria and part of the broader Victorian basin faunal region. Males develop attractive blue and red nuptial colouration at maturity, and the species offers interesting comparisons with Victorian lake species for hobbyists interested in the broader East African rift cichlid fauna.

Care requirements are broadly similar to Victorian cichlids: hard, alkaline water, rocky décor, and a harem keeping arrangement. The species is a maternal mouthbrooder and moderately aggressive. It is best kept in a Victorian-region community that may include fish from Lakes Edward, George, Albert, and Kyoga alongside true Lake Victoria species.

This species is less commonly encountered in the hobby than most Victorian species, and obtaining it from specialist importers is recommended. Breeding this species in captivity contributes to its representation in cultured stocks.

Water: 22-27°C, pH 7.0-8.5, hard alkaline; weekly 25% water changes. Tank: 200L minimum; rocky décor with open swimming; mixed rocky and sandy zones. Feeding: Quality cichlid pellets, frozen mysis, brine shrimp, and spirulina supplements. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; standard Victorian-region cichlid breeding care. Compatibility: Victorian-region community; compatible with similar-sized Victorian species.