This page provides detailed information about Tropheus moorii 'Kalambo' (also known as Chisanza Moorii), a geographic color variant of the Tropheus moorii found near the Kalambo River, which marks the border between Zambia and Tanzania.
Appearance: This variant is very similar to the 'Mpulungu' and 'Mbita' variants, but with a few distinct differences:
It features a yellow patch on the body.
A key identifying feature is the red iris of the eye (whereas the similar 'Mpulungu' variant typically has a yellow iris).
It is also famous for producing mutants known as "Kushangaza" (sometimes incorrectly called OB). These fish develop unusual orange or yellow blotches as adults.
A rare, entirely yellow-orange version called "Golden Kalambo" (caused by xanthism) is also found in this area.
Size: Adults grow to about 14 cm (males) and 12 cm (females).
Habitat (Biotop): They live in rocky environments.
Tank Size: Minimum 400 liters (length of at least 150 cm).
Setup: Fine sand substrate and many rocks to create hiding spots and visual barriers.
Water Parameters: High oxygen levels are essential. pH should be 7.5–9.5, and temperature should be stable at 25–27°C. Regular 30–50% weekly water changes are necessary.
Social Structure: Keep in large groups (15–25 fish) to distribute their high intra-specific aggression. The ideal ratio is 3–4 females per male.
Diet: Strictly herbivorous. In nature, they graze on algae (aufwuchs). In an aquarium, they should be fed high-quality spirulina flakes and must avoid high-protein foods to prevent "bloat."
Breeding: They are maternal mouthbrooders. Females carry 6 to 16 large eggs for 24–26 days. Unlike many other mouthbrooders, the females continue to feed while carrying the fry.