Discover fishes of the genus Tropheus

The genus Tropheus includes six species of cichlids that are endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. These fish are known for their specialized herbivorous diet, feeding primarily on algae and plant matter found in their lacustrine environment.

The distribution of the different species within Lake Tanganyika is closely linked to the region’s geological history. Over time, tectonic movements and fluctuations in water levels have created new rocky formations, deltas, and islands, which have influenced the diversification of Tropheus species.

The mouth of Tropheus is specifically adapted to their herbivorous diet. They possess thick lips and comb-shaped teeth, allowing them to graze on algae-covered rocky surfaces. This anatomical adaptation is essential for their survival and feeding competition.

Tropheus are mainly found near the rocky shores of Lake Tanganyika, where algae and plant materials are abundant. Each Tropheus species typically occupies a small, well-defined territory along the rocky formations. These territories are vigorously defended against intruders, whether from the same species or other Tropheus species, leading to strong spatial separation between populations.

These fish are still the focus of ongoing research, particularly concerning evolution and the emergence of new species. To this day, several localized populations are still being studied to determine their status as distinct species or varieties.