(F9) Demasoni Cichlid (≈2 inches)

Description

1. 🐟 Demasoni Cichlid

📌 Basic Info

• Scientific Name: Pseudotropheus demasoni

• Family: Cichlidae (Mbuna group)

• Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa

• Size: 3 – 4 inches (7 – 10 cm)

• Lifespan: 7 – 10 years

• Tank Zone: Mid to Bottom

🌊 Water Parameters

• TDS: 170 – 250 ppm

• pH: 7.5 – 8.6 (alkaline)

• Temperature: 24 – 28°C (75 – 82°F)

• Hardness: 10 – 20 dGH

🐟 Characteristics

• Striking blue body with black vertical stripes.

• Small-sized Mbuna cichlid but very aggressive for its size.

• Highly territorial, especially males.

• Best suited for experienced aquarists.

• Very active swimmers, love rocky environments.

🍽️ Food

• Type: Omnivorous (herbivore-leaning)

• Diet: Spirulina flakes, algae wafers, high-quality cichlid pellets, blanched vegetables (spinach, zucchini, peas).

• Avoid too much protein (can cause bloat).

• Feeding: 1–2 times daily in small amounts.

🛠️ Maintenance

• Tank Size: Minimum 40 gallons (larger for groups).

• Filtration: Strong – they need clean, oxygen-rich water.

• Decor: Rocky aquascape with caves and hiding spots. Avoid delicate plants (they may uproot).

• Water Change: 30% weekly.

👥 Social Behavior

• Minimum Group Size: Best kept in groups of 12+ to spread aggression.

• Tank Mates: Other Mbuna cichlids of similar size & temperament (Yellow Labs, Acei, Red Zebras).

• Avoid: Peaceful fish, large predators, or very small community fish.

✅ Do’s

• Provide plenty of rocks and caves to reduce aggression.

• Keep them in larger groups (not pairs or trios).

• Maintain alkaline, hard water.

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t keep singly or in pairs – aggression will increase.

• Don’t feed too much protein – risk of Malawi bloat.

• Don’t overcrowd without enough hiding places.

⭐ Quick Tips

• Though small, they are one of the most aggressive mbuna cichlids.

• Their blue-and-black stripes make them a favorite in African cichlid tanks.

• Best for Lake Malawi setups with rocky structures