Tropheus moorii 'Firecracker'

Tropheus moorii 'Firecracker' is a striking and infrequently available colour morph displaying a vivid flame-orange to red-orange anterior half that transitions sharply to a dark grey posterior — a bicolour pattern that has earned it its evocative common name. This form is not widely exported and is primarily available from specialist European Tanganyika breeders.

Like all T. moorii morphs, the Firecracker requires strict herbivore care, large colony management, and alkaline hard water. The orange colouration is best maintained with a diet incorporating astaxanthin-enhanced spirulina pellets alongside regular water changes to maintain peak alkalinity.

This morph is recommended for experienced Tropheus keepers seeking a less commonly seen colour form; its dramatic bicolour pattern makes a species-only colony one of the most visually arresting Tanganyika displays possible.

Water: 24–27°C, pH 7.8–9.0, GH 12–20, KH 10–18; high alkalinity and frequent water changes maintain colour. Tank: 300 L minimum; maximum rockwork density; no sharp objects; sand or fine gravel substrate. Feeding: Premium spirulina flake and astaxanthin-enhanced Rift Lake pellets exclusively; no protein foods. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; 5–15 fry; females isolated or stripped at day 21–28. Compatibility: Species-only recommended; strict morph isolation required to prevent hybridisation.