Demasoni Cichlid

Pseudotropheus demasoni

Animalia›Chordata›Actinopterygii›Cichlidae

📍 Pombo Rocks, Lake Malawi (endemic)

Stunning deep blue mbuna with pale blue stripes. Extremely aggressive despite its small size — requires a large colony (12+) to disperse aggression. Not for beginners.

Size3"

Min Tank55g

School12+

aggressive

Zonemid

Care Guide

Diet

Demasoni cichlids are primarily herbivorous and require a diet rich in vegetable matter and algae-based foods. Feed high-quality spirulina flakes, algae wafers, and blanched vegetables (spinach, zucchini) 5-6 days per week. Supplement 1-2 times weekly with small amounts of frozen foods like brine shrimp or bloodworms to provide protein variety.

Behavior

Extremely aggressive and territorial despite their small size, Demasoni cichlids are best kept in large colonies of 12+ individuals to distribute aggression across the group. They are active mid-water swimmers that constantly patrol their territory and engage in frequent sparring with tank mates. Males establish dominance hierarchies and will relentlessly chase smaller or weaker fish.

Breeding

Breeding in captivity is possible but challenging due to their aggressive nature and specific requirements. Pairs are difficult to establish as males are highly aggressive toward females outside spawning periods. Successful breeding requires abundant hiding spaces, stable water conditions (pH 7.5–8.5, 24–26°C), and careful monitoring to prevent fatal aggression.

Tank Mates

Kenyi Cichlid

Similar aggression level and Lake Malawi origin; requires careful monitoring and ample space to minimize conflict

caution

Maingano

Comparable size and temperament; can coexist in large colonies but constant sparring expected

caution

Tropheus

Similar herbivorous diet and Lake Malawi habitat; slightly larger and more robust, reducing predation risk

good

Bristlenose Pleco

Nocturnal bottom-dweller that avoids direct competition; helps control algae without competing for territory

good

Nerite Snail

Algae grazer that occupies different niche; hard shell provides protection from aggressive cichlids

good

Common Diseases

Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)

Symptoms

White spots on body and fins, rapid gill movement, lethargy, rubbing against objects

Treatment

Raise temperature gradually to 28–29°C, perform daily 25% water changes, use aquarium salt (1 tsp per 5 gallons) or commercial ich treatment; maintain for 10–14 days

Bloat (Malawi Bloat)

Symptoms

Swollen abdomen, loss of appetite, difficulty swimming, pale coloration

Treatment

Perform large water change immediately, reduce feeding, offer high-quality herbivore pellets only, add Epsom salt (1/8 tsp per 10 gallons); consult veterinarian if condition worsens

Fin Rot

Symptoms

Frayed or deteriorating fins, white or black edges on fin tissue, lethargy

Treatment

Perform 50% water change, improve water quality and filtration, treat with antibacterial medication (e.g., tetracycline) per label instructions; remove aggressive tank mates if causing injury

Mouth Fungus (Columnaris)

Symptoms

White or grayish coating around mouth and gill area, difficulty eating, gasping

Treatment

Isolate affected fish, treat with antibacterial medication or salt baths, maintain pristine water quality with frequent changes, ensure adequate aeration