ORANGE FLAME TROPHEUS (Tropheus moorii bemba’)

Orange Flame Tropheus (Tropheus moorii “Bemba”) – Product Description

The Orange Flame Tropheus, also known as Tropheus moorii “Bemba”, is one of the most striking and sought-after variants from Lake Tanganyika. Known for its bold black body accented with a vibrant orange band, this fish adds incredible movement and color to any Tanganyikan display.

Tropheus are social, intelligent, and active rock-dwellers that thrive in groups. Their high energy, unique grazing behavior, and vivid contrasting coloration make them a favorite among advanced cichlid keepers looking to build a dynamic, natural Tanganyika setup.

Care Guide

Origin

• Lake Tanganyika, Africa

• Location variant: Bemba (northwestern shoreline)

Temperament

• Highly social

• Territorial but less aggressive when kept in large groups

• Should be kept in colonies, not singly

Adult Size

• 4–5 inches (10–12 cm)

Minimum Tank Size

• 75+ gallons for a proper colony

• Larger tanks recommended for multiple species

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 75–80°F (24–27°C)

• pH: 8.2–9.0

• Hardness: Hard to very hard water

• Requires pristine, stable, well-oxygenated water

Diet

• Primarily herbivorous—grazers in the wild

• Feed:

  • Spirulina-based flakes and pellets

  • Vegetable matter and algae-based foods

  • Light supplement of quality cichlid pellets

• Avoid high-protein or fatty foods (e.g., brine shrimp, bloodworms) to prevent bloat

Tank Setup

• Rock-heavy aquascape with caves and crevices

• Strong water movement and high oxygen levels

• Sandy or fine substrate

• Plenty of grazing surfaces (rocks with natural algae growth)

Behavior & Compatibility

• Best kept in colonies of 12+ individuals to spread aggression

• Do NOT mix different Tropheus variants (they hybridize easily)

• Compatible with:

  • Petrochromis (with caution, depending on tank size)

  • Some Lamprologus/Neolamprologus species

  • Other peaceful Tanganyika rock-dwellers

• Avoid Malawi species or aggressive Tanganyikans

Breeding

• Maternal mouthbrooders

• Females carry eggs and fry in their mouth for ~28 days

• Provide flat rocks and open rock areas for courtship

Lifespan

• 8–10 years with excellent care