Tropheops tropheops 'Lundo'

Tropheops tropheops 'Lundo' is the population of Tropheops tropheops associated with Lundo Island in Lake Malawi. Males from this locale exhibit rich blue to steel-grey body colouration accented by yellow to amber dorsal fin margins. Lundo is a small island whose fish populations show subtle but consistent colouration differences appreciated by dedicated locale collectors.

Functional morphology of this species is strongly shaped by its algae-grazing lifestyle — the lower jaw is robust and the lips thickened to enable forceful scraping of Aufwuchs from rock surfaces. Tank management requires a commitment to a strictly algae-based diet; animal protein triggers fatal Malawi bloat with high regularity in Tropheops. Standard mbuna management applies: harem groups, heavy rockwork, aggressive tank management, and maternal mouthbrooding females holding for 21–28 days.

Water: 24–28°C, pH 7.8–8.5, hard (GH 10–25, KH 6–15); maintain with biological filtration and consistent water changes. Tank: 200 L minimum; rock structure dominant; tight crevices and caves for females to retreat from male aggression. Feeding: Exclusively algae-based — spirulina flake, algae pellets, fresh vegetable matter; no animal protein whatsoever. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; brooding female should be isolated to a calm 40–60 L tank for the 21–28 day hold. Compatibility: Mbuna community only; do not mix with other T. tropheops locales; suitable with Metriaclima and Pseudotropheus of similar size.