African Bumble Bee Cichlid
aka Tropheus sp. "Ikola" , Tropheus sp. Black "Ikola" Kaiser I,  Emperor Moorii
This variety is from Ikola, Tanzania

Hardness: 8 - 22 dH
Ph: 7.3 - 9.2
Temp: 76 - 82° F (25 - 28° C)
Max size: 4”
Omnivores
Swims at the top, Middle and Bottom of the aquarium!

The Tropheus species are endemic to Lake Tanganyika, Africa and are widely distributed throughout the lake.  They inhabit rocky costal areas feeding on algae and microorganisms.

The Tropheus became a big hit when first introduced in Germany in the mid 70's and then into the United States, and are still very popular today.  Many of the imports were identified as T. Moorii varieties, but now it is known that these fish represent a number of different species.  The species that have not yet been described as their own species nor placed back in one of the other categories are sold as Tropheus sp. "black",Tropheus sp. "red", Tropheus sp. "ikola", and Tropheus sp. "mpimbwe".

A group or colony of at least 12 or more can make an amazing display and their personality is a definite plus.  Tropheus have an interesting social structure that is built upon a colony of consistent tank mates.  They are very active and have individual behaviors, from curiously lining up to watch the goings on in the room to their 'dolphin-like' antics when eating.  Feeding time can be very 'wet' for their keepers, but make this fish very fun and desirable.  In the wild, Tropheus can be aggressive, but are said to be less aggressive with other fish.  In the aquarium their aggression level towards unrelated fish can vary depending on the personalities of the individual fish.

Provide a sandy substrate, strong lighting to encourage algae growth, and several rock piles along with rocks formed into caves.  Having a very aggressive nature, they are best kept in a species specific tank.  Do not add a new fish to an already established colony as this will cause an upset and death.  They may also be kept in a larger aquarium with some other herbivorous rock dwelling African cichlids.  The larger the tank and the more hiding places you have will help with aggression.  Truly a rewarding fish for the aquarist who is willing to provide the necessary care.