General information – The Tropheus Murago is an amazing member

of the Tropheus group, according to some hobbyists around the globe

the Murago is the most sought after species. Their aggressive

conspecific behavior, their temperament in the tank along with their

tendency to catch "bloat" or internal parasite makes it a real challenge,

in my opinion these cichlids should be kept only by experienced fish

keepers. The Murago belongs to the moorii group. There are two

common variants to this species, the green Murago and the yellow

Murago. 

Common Name - Murago 

Scientific Name - Tropheus Murago

Photo by: Reuven moskovich

Family – Cichlidae  

Origin - Lake Tanganyika, Africa 

Size – Up to 15 cm (6 in) 

First discovered – Boulenger, 1898  

Nutrition – Although it will often graze on tank algae it requires vegetal diet. In the wild, they feed on

algae scraped from the rocks along with crustaceans and aquatic insects. In captivity, the Murago

requires high quality Spirulina based flake and pellet foods. It is also recommended to add some fresh

lettuce, spinach to their diet.  They should also be fed with low protein frozen foods such as daphnia

and brine shrimp, avoid bloodworms and other "heavy" frozen foods.   

Behavior – Aggressive  

Maintenance and care - Tropheus Murago should be kept in a species tank in groups of 12-15

individuals. Due to males aggressiveness it best kept in ratio of one male to 6-7 females. The tank

should be decorated with heavy rock formation along with plenty of room to swim, sand or fine gravel

will be ideal.  In nature, the Murago inhabit 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

changes of 20% once a week and removing uneaten food will help prevent disease.

Water Parameters – Temperature: 24C-27C (75F-81F), pH 7.8-9.0, GH 12-20

Breeding – Like its entire genus the Murago is a mouthbrooder. Males are a bit larger then females

while females tend to be more rounded. The only way to be sure when sexing this species is by

venting. The dominant male performs a "dance" around the female, as she will accept its court they

will circle one another. After spawning, the male immediately fertilize the eggs, the female takes

fertilized eggs into her mouth. She will incubate them in her mouthFor about a month, after release

the fry are free swimmers, large and ready to feed. They can be fed with brine shrimp, fry foods or

with crushed food.

Photo by: Reuven moskovich