Tropheus sp. 'Black' Kiriza

Tropheus sp. 'Black' Kiriza is a dramatic, all-black Tropheus form from the rocky shores near Kiriza in the northern DRC, close to Uvira. Adults are jet-black across the entire body and fins, with a subtle green-to-blue iridescent sheen visible under strong lighting — a colour combination that is visually stunning and highly sought by Tropheus collectors.

This form is currently considered an undescribed species or population and is maintained as a distinct line by dedicated European breeders. It is rarely exported from the wild and most available specimens are captive-bred. Colony management, diet, and water chemistry requirements are identical to T. moorii.

The all-black colouration makes this form particularly striking in a species-only display aquarium with natural-toned rockwork. Males are extremely territorial and aggressive, making proper colony size and rockscape design critical.

Water: 24–27°C, pH 7.8–9.0, GH 12–20, KH 10–18; northern Tanganyika parameters; high alkalinity. Tank: 300 L minimum; dense, complex rockwork; dark substrate enhances the contrast of the all-black body. Feeding: Spirulina flake and Rift Lake pellets; no protein; spirulina-enhanced foods maintain iridescent sheen. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; 5–15 fry; colony breeding with multiple females reduces female stress. Compatibility: Species-only; strict isolation from other Tropheus forms required.