Fin's Fish Guide
The Brichard's tropheus (Tropheus brichardi) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
Brichard's tropheus is a cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 11 cm and has a stocky, dark body that can vary strongly in colour between populations. Unlike many cichlids it does not form schools; it lives over solid rock, whether anchored bedrock, interlocking rubble or sandstone slabs along the beach, where it territorially defends a spot. With its mouth it grazes the growth layer of algae from the rocks. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. The species is popular with aquarists and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brichard's tropheus?
The Brichard's tropheus has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Does not form shoals; rock-dwelling algae grazer with highly colour-variable populations; mouthbrooder.
Where does the Brichard's tropheus live?
The Brichard's tropheus lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; rocky coastal zone.
How big does the Brichard's tropheus get?
The Brichard's tropheus grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Brichard's tropheus dangerous to humans?
No, the Brichard's tropheus is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Brichard's tropheus edible?
The Brichard's tropheus is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Tropheus
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Brichard's tropheus?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Brichard's tropheus is one of 12,519 species in the app.