Tropheops Red Cheek Tropheops sp. "Red Cheek Mac" Tropheops Red Cheek is a Lake Malawi mbuna with the active rockwork behavior and grazing-oriented body expected from the Red Cheek Mac group. It is a strong fit for structured mbuna aquariums with caves, hard water, and similar-size tank mates. Origin and Habitat Native Region: Lake Malawi Red Cheek Mac-type stock in the aquarium trade. Natural Habitat: Rocky shoreline habitat with caves, ledges, and grazing surfaces. Physical Characteristics Size: 6-7 inches. Coloration: Dimorphic; mature males develop the strongest red-cheek display while females and juveniles are more subdued. Body Shape: Robust mbuna body built for active movement through rockwork. Behavior and Temperament Temperament: Mildly aggressive. Social Behavior: Best kept with compatible Lake Malawi mbuna in a rock-heavy aquarium. Aquarium Care Tank Size: A 55 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended. Water Parameters: 74-84°F, pH 7.4-8.4, hard water. Tank Setup: Provide sand, extensive rockwork, caves, grazing surfaces, broken sightlines, and strong filtration. Diet and Feeding Primary Staple: Feed a quality daily diet such as Ron’s Mbuna Food. Juveniles: Growing fish can be fed Ron’s Juvenile Food. Fry: Newly released fry should be started on Ron’s Fry Food. Feeding Frequency: Feed 1–2 small meals daily and avoid overfeeding. Breeding Breeding Type: Maternal mouthbrooder. Breeding Notes: Males display around rocky territories and females mouthbrood eggs and fry. Tank Mates Compatible With: Other Lake Malawi mbuna and sturdy African cichlids of similar size. Avoid: Tiny fish, delicate community fish, and very similar males in cramped tanks.
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