Hypsophrys nematopus (Poor Man's Tropheus)

Hypsophrys nematopus, the Poor Man's Tropheus, is a Central American cichlid known for its algae-grazing diet, unique cave-spawning behavior (laying large, non-adhesive eggs in silt-lined pits), and dramatic color changes during breeding, featuring a distinct dark bar or spot on its flank, with parents fiercely guarding their young. They are robust, active fish requiring hard, alkaline water, lots of digging space, and a varied diet of plant matter, algae, and small invertebrates, often nicknamed "Moga" or "Picaculo" in the aquarium hobby.