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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps
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Pseudotropheus sp. 'lucerna north' Lupingu
Genus: Pseudotropheus
Biotope: Shallow intermediate habitat with rocky substrate covered by biocover and algae.
Geographic distribution: Occurs along the northern shores of Tanzania, north of the Ruhuhu River, and is commonly found between Lupingu and the Ruhuhu River.
Diet: Feeds by picking algae from the biocover on rocks; individuals have not been observed twisting algae off rocks in the manner typical of Tropheops.
Breeding: Males defend feeding territories with great zeal; the center of each territory is typically a small hole excavated beneath small rocks.
Aggression: Very aggressive; males actively defend feeding territories.
Special notes: Member of the so-called “lucerna group”, characterized by an average-shaped body, a convex upper head profile, and a ventrally positioned mouth. It is the only member of the group lacking black spots on the trailing part of the dorsal fin. This form was previously considered a local form of Tropheops sp. ‘rust’ and may represent an intermediate between that genus and the lucerna group.

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Photo: © Ad Konings
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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps.
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