Labeotrophues Trewvassea Chilumba

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About the Labeotropheus Trewavasae Chilumba

The Labeotropheus Trewavasae Chilumba, commonly sold as Chilumba Red, is a regional colour form of Labeotropheus trewavasae from the rocky shores around Chilumba, Lake Malawi. It is a classic Mbuna cichlid, recognised by its distinctive fleshy, downturned snout adapted for scraping algae from rocks.

Males can develop intense orange, red, blue and rusty tones, while females may display orange-blotch (OB) patterns or more subdued orange colouration. The exact appearance can vary considerably between individuals and collection lines.

This is an active and territorial Mbuna that should be kept in a suitably sized Lake Malawi aquarium with plenty of rockwork, caves and visual barriers. Multiple females per male help spread breeding aggression.

Their natural diet consists largely of aufwuchs and algae scraped from rocks, so a predominantly vegetable-based diet is important in the aquarium.

Quick Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Labeotropheus trewavasae
• Common Name: Chilumba Trewavasae, Chilumba Red, Scrapermouth Mbuna
• Family: Cichlidae
• Type: Lake Malawi Mbuna
• Adult Size: Approximately 12–15 cm
• Temperament: Aggressive / territorial
• Care Level: Intermediate
• Minimum Aquarium: 250 L+
• Temperature: 24–28°C
• pH: 7.7–8.6
• Water Hardness: Hard, alkaline
• Diet: Herbivore / algae grazer
• Tank Level: Bottom to middle
• Group Size: 1 male with 3–5 females
• Origin: Chilumba, Lake Malawi
• Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder

Frequently Asked Questions

How big does Chilumba Trewavasae get?

They generally reach around 12–15 cm, with males typically larger than females.

Are Chilumba Trewavasae aggressive?

Yes. They are a territorial Mbuna, with males becoming particularly aggressive when breeding. Plenty of rockwork and an appropriate stocking ratio help distribute aggression.

What should I feed them?

Use a quality spirulina-based flake or pellet as the staple diet. Algae-based foods and suitable vegetable matter can also be offered.

Can they be kept with other Malawi cichlids?

Yes, provided their tank mates are similarly robust and compatible Mbuna. Avoid mixing them with very peaceful fish that may be bullied.

Are they mouthbrooders?

Yes. Females are maternal mouthbrooders, carrying eggs and developing fry in their mouths.

What aquarium setup is best?

A rocky Lake Malawi setup with numerous caves, territories and open swimming areas works very well. Use hard, alkaline water and strong filtration.

Common Mistakes

• ❌ Feeding too much high-protein food
• ❌ Keeping them in soft or acidic water
• ❌ Providing too few rocks and hiding places
• ❌ Keeping multiple males in a small aquarium
• ❌ Keeping only one female with a highly territorial male
• ❌ Mixing them with unsuitable peaceful species