General information - The tropheus Ilangi is regarded as one of the

most beautiful tropheus species. With its shining yellow, orange and

red colors the Ilangi is probably the most sought after tropheus species

all over the world. Like its entire genus it must be kept in large groups

in the tank in order to spread its natural aggressions. A similar variant

is found in Nkamba Bay this variant known as "Orange Ilangi", but it

doesn't have the same contrast between body and fin color.

Common Name – Ilangi,  

Scientific Name – Tropheus moorii Ilangi 

Photo by: reuven moskovich

Origin - Lake Tanganyika, Africa  

Size – Up to 13 cm 

First discovered – Unknown  

Nutrition - The most crucial aspect of Tropheus care is feeding. In nature, the tropheus Ilangi feeds on

algae and on crustaceans and aquatic insects that thrive in these algae. In captivity it requires a varied

diet, quality veggie flakes should be supplemented with fresh and frozen green food. It can feed with

"light" frozen foods such as brine shrimp or daphnia 1-2 times a week but feeding it on a daily basis or

with rich protein foods such as bloodworms can lead to Malawi bloat or to internal parasites. Feeding the

Ilangi with nori algae can enhance its natural colors.  

Behavior - Aggressive 

Maintenance and care - This beautiful cichlid should be kept in groups in large aquariums. The

aquarium should be decorated with lot of rocks that creates a lot of hiding places but also requires

plenty of room to swim. The tank can be decorated with only few rocks that placed randomly in the

tank. To be accurate the tank can be decorated with heavy rock formation or with 3-4 rocks but

poor rock formation will lead to territorial fights. In nature, the Ilangi found in rocky environments, in

its natural habitat the water is rich in oxygen and its fish tank should therefore have vigorous water

movements. Good filtration system is also essential to this magnificent cichlid. Use strong lighting

to increase the growth of algae. Hardy, bitter plants (Anubias, Microsorium and Echinodorus) can

be used if live plants are desired.   

Water Parameters – Temperature: 77F-82F (25C-28°C), pH 8-9.2, dH: 8-22 

Breeding - Tropheus Ilangi is mouthbrooder. The female will take the unfertilized eggs in her mouth;

eggs will be fertilized after the male release his milt into her mouth. This process occurs when the 

female follow the male very close to his anal fin. Fry can be feed with brine shrimps or with

crushed flake foods