Labeotropheus trewavasae 'Thumbi West'

Labeotropheus trewavasae 'Thumbi West' originates from Thumbi West Island in the southern basin of Lake Malawi. Males display electric-blue flanks paired with a vivid orange dorsal fin — a two-toned colour pattern that makes this locale especially attractive. OB morphs, carrying irregular orange blotch patterning, are well represented in this population. Females are typically orange-brown with faint mottling.

The distinctive underslung snout with a modified subrostral disc allows L. trewavasae to grip rock surfaces and graze algae even in turbulent near-surface wave zones inaccessible to most other cichlids. Highly territorial, this species requires a 1M:3–4F harem structure in a 200+ L tank with abundant rockwork. An exclusively algae-based diet is mandatory, as any animal protein introduction risks Malawi bloat. Maternal mouthbrooding females hold eggs and fry for approximately 21–28 days.