Red Top Trewavasae Thumbi West
Labeotropheus trewavasae
Red Top Trewavasae Thumbi West is a Lake Malawi mbuna with active rock-dwelling behavior and a specialized grazing body shape. It is best kept in a hard-water mbuna aquarium with extensive rockwork and compatible tank mates.
Origin and Habitat
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Native Region: Thumbi West, Lake Malawi.
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Natural Habitat: Rocky mbuna habitat.
Physical Characteristics
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Size: Up to about 6 inches.
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Coloration: Dimorphic; mature males show the strongest red-top display color, while females and juveniles are more subdued.
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Body Shape: Sturdy mbuna body with the downturned mouth typical of Labeotropheus.
Behavior and Temperament
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Temperament: Mildly aggressive.
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Social Behavior: Best kept with compatible Lake Malawi mbuna in a rock-structured aquarium.
Aquarium Care
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Tank Size: A 55 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended.
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Water Parameters: 74-84°F, pH 7.4-8.4, hard water.
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Tank Setup: Provide sand or fine substrate, extensive rockwork, caves, sight breaks, and strong filtration.
Diet and Feeding
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Primary Staple: Feed a quality daily diet such as Ron’s Mbuna Food.
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Juveniles: Growing fish can be fed Ron’s Juvenile Food.
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Fry: Newly released fry should be started on Ron’s Fry Food.
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Feeding Frequency: Feed 1–2 small meals daily and avoid overfeeding.
Breeding
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Breeding Type: Maternal mouthbrooder.
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Breeding Notes: Males display around rock territories. Females hold eggs and fry in the mouth, and fry benefit from dense rock cover.
Tank Mates
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Compatible With: Other compatible Lake Malawi mbuna and sturdy African cichlids of similar size.
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Avoid: Tiny fish, delicate community fish, and highly aggressive mbuna in cramped tanks.
