malawi

Labeotropheus Trewavasae Marmolade Catt F1

🐟 Labeotropheus trewavasae “Marmalade” — Species Description
📏 Size

Adult size: 12–15 cm (5–6 inches)

Males are generally larger and more powerfully built than females

This species has a deep body and downturned mouth, adapted for grazing

🌍 Occurrence (Natural Origin)

Endemic to Lake Malawi, East Africa

The name “Marmalade” refers to a color morph/local variant of Labeotropheus trewavasae

Found along rocky shorelines and reefs of the lake

Lives in wave-washed rocky zones, often in shallow water

Labeotropheus trewavasae is a true species; “Marmalade” describes a specific color form, not a hybrid.

🎨 Appearance

“Marmalade” individuals typically show:

Bright orange to orange-red body

Dark vertical barring or mottling

Dark edging on dorsal and anal fins

Females are also colorful, unlike many Mbuna species

🍽️ Diet (Preferred Food)

In the wild:

Specialized aufwuchs grazer

Feeds almost exclusively on:

Algae

Diatoms

Microorganisms scraped from rocks

In the aquarium:

Spirulina-based flakes or pellets

High-fiber vegetable cichlid foods

Blanched vegetables (spinach, zucchini) can be offered occasionally

⚠️ Avoid high-protein animal foods (bloodworms, beef heart, excessive shrimp), as this species is especially prone to digestive problems and Malawi bloat.

🧠 Behavior & Temperament

Territorial and assertive, even for Mbuna

Males strongly defend rock territories

Best kept:

In species-only tanks, or

With other robust, aggressive Mbuna

Keep 1 male with several females to reduce stress and aggression

🏞️ Preferred Aquarium Conditions

pH: 7.8–8.6

Hardness: Moderate to hard

Temperature: 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)

Substrate: Sand

Décor: Heavy rockwork with many caves and grazing surfaces

Tank size: Minimum 300 L (75 gallons) recommended due to aggression

🧾 Quick Summary
Feature Details
Scientific Name Labeotropheus trewavasae
Color Form “Marmalade”
Group Mbuna
Adult Size 12–15 cm (5–6 in)
Origin Lake Malawi
Diet Strict algae/aufwuchs grazer
Temperament Aggressive, territorial
Best Setup Rocky Mbuna aquarium