Tropheops tropheops 'Boadzulu'

Tropheops tropheops 'Boadzulu' is the population of the widespread Tropheops tropheops species from Boadzulu Island in southern Lake Malawi. Males exhibit blue to grey-blue base colouration, often with a yellow to orange dorsal fin edge — a characteristic shared across many Tropheops locales but varying in intensity. Females are typically brown-orange to yellowish.

Tropheops tropheops is a dedicated Aufwuchs grazer with a thick-lipped, robust jaw structure suited for scraping algae from rock surfaces. The Boadzulu population is notable for being one of the better-documented locale forms accessible in the hobby. This species is territorial and aggressive, particularly between males. Managing in harem groups in heavily decorated tanks with stacked rockwork is standard. Mouthbrooding females hold for 21–28 days. Strict algae-based feeding is essential — high-protein food regularly triggers Malawi bloat in this species.

Water: 24–28°C, pH 7.8–8.5, hard (GH 10–25, KH 6–15); hard water is especially important for the Tropheops group. Tank: 200 L minimum; dense stacked rocks forming multiple territories; some sandy open area below rocks. Feeding: Algae-heavy diet only — spirulina flake, algae wafers; supplement with blanched vegetables; strictly avoid bloodworm and other animal proteins. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; female holds 21–28 days; isolate in a nursery tank for fry protection. Compatibility: Mbuna community; avoid mixing multiple Tropheops locales; compatible with similarly aggressive species of different genera.