tanganyika

Tropheus Black Bemba

Tropheus sp. “Black Bemba”, one of the most iconic and demanding algae-grazing cichlids from Lake Tanganyika, loved for its deep black body and bold yellow band.

🐟 Tropheus sp. “Black Bemba” — Species Description
📏 Size

Adult size: 12–14 cm (5–5.5 inches)

Stocky, muscular body

Males and females look very similar

Slow to reach full adult size

🌍 Occurrence (Natural Origin)

Endemic to Lake Tanganyika, East Africa

Bemba locality:

Southern part of the lake (Zambian shoreline)

Habitat:

Shallow rocky shorelines

Strong wave action

Sun-exposed rocks rich in algae (aufwuchs)

Lives in large grazing groups

“Black Bemba” is a well-established geographic variant, not a hybrid or line-bred strain.

🎨 Appearance

Body color:

Jet black to deep charcoal

Marking:

Bright yellow vertical band behind the head

Fins:

Black with subtle blue sheen

Color contrast improves with age and proper diet

🍽️ Diet (Preferred Food)

In the wild:

Specialized herbivore

Feeds almost exclusively on:

Algae (aufwuchs)

Microorganisms living within the algae

In the aquarium:

High-quality spirulina-based pellets or flakes

Blanched vegetables:

Spinach

Zucchini

Peas (skinned)

Occasional very small amounts of protein (not necessary)

⚠️ Avoid high-protein foods — this species is highly prone to bloat.

🧠 Behavior & Temperament

Highly social but aggressive

Constant dominance displays

Aggression is spread out only in large groups

Must be kept:

12+ individuals (absolute minimum 10)

Hierarchy-driven behavior; no true pairs

🏞️ Preferred Aquarium Conditions

Tank size:

Group: 450–600 L (120–160 gallons) minimum

pH: 8.5–9.2

Hardness: Very hard

Temperature: 24–26 °C (75–79 °F)

Substrate: Sand

Décor: Large rock piles with open grazing surfaces

Water movement: Strong

Filtration: Heavy and highly oxygenated

Stability and cleanliness are critical.

🧾 Quick Summary
Feature Details
Scientific Name Tropheus sp.
Variant Black Bemba
Lake Tanganyika
Adult Size 12–14 cm
Diet Strict herbivore
Temperament Aggressive, social
Difficulty Advanced

⚠️ Critical Compatibility Notes

Do NOT mix with:

Malawi cichlids

Carnivorous Tanganyika species (Altolamprologus, Frontosa)

Peaceful or slow feeders

Best setup:

Species-only tank

Or Tropheus-only community (same species, same locality)

🧠 Expert Tip

With Tropheus, numbers matter more than tankmates. Too few fish = relentless bullying. Too much protein = disaster. When done right, they are among the most active and rewarding cichlids you can keep.