Labeotropheus is a genus of fish in the family Cichlidae endemic to Lake Malawi in eastern Africa. It includes at least 11 species, each with a number of subspecies or races. Further taxonomic work is required to determine how many species exist. These cichlids are popular ornamental fish and are ideally suited to the cichlid aquarium. Like many Malawi cichlids, these species are algal grazers. Like all cichlids from Lake Malawi these cichlids are best maintained in hard, alkaline water. This genus are best kept in aquariums with volumes greater than 120 L (31.5 gallon). The aquarium should be decorated with rocks, although caves can also be easily created from terracotta pots.

Labeotropheus fuelleborni
Labeotropheus fuelleborni Blue morph
Labeotropheus fuelleborni blotched morph
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Cichliformes
Family: Cichlidae
Tribe: Haplochromini
Genus: Labeotropheus
C. G. E. Ahl, 1926
Type species
Labeotropheus fuelleborni
Ahl, 1926

Species

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There are currently 11 recognized species in this genus, including:[1]

References

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  1. ^ Eschmeyer, William N.; Fricke, Ron & van der Laan, Richard (eds.). "Species in the genus Labeotropheus". Catalog of Fishes. California Academy of Sciences. Retrieved 20 July 2024.
  2. ^ a b Pauers, M.J. (2016): Two New and Remarkably Similarly Colored Species of Labeotropheus (Perciformes: Cichlidae) from Lake Malaŵi, Africa. Copeia, 104 (3): 628-638.