Demason’s cichlid - Pseudotropheus demasoni

Scientific name: Pseudotropheus demasoni

Common name: Demason’s cichlid

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 4 - 8 cm (1.57 - 3.15 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 8 - 8.9

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 10 - 18°N (178.57 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 28 °C (71.6 - 82.4°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Africa

Temperament to its own species: aggressive/territorial

Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive/territorial

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and Feeding

Demason’s Cichlid (Pseudotropheus demasoni) requires a low-protein, herbivorous diet to maintain optimal health and prevent digestive issues. A staple diet of spirulina flakes, high-quality cichlid pellets, and vegetable-based sticks should be provided. Fresh vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, and lettuce can be offered as supplements. Avoid feeding high-protein or meaty foods, as they can cause digestive complications.

Origin and Natural Habitat

Native to Lake Malawi in Africa, Pseudotropheus demasoni is endemic to the rocky shorelines of the lake, where they inhabit crevices and caves. Their natural environment consists of hard, alkaline water with moderate to strong currents, which should be replicated in a home aquarium.

Sexing

Sexing Pseudotropheus demasoni can be challenging, as both males and females display identical bright blue and black coloration with bold vertical stripes. However, males tend to be more aggressive and assertive in behavior compared to females.

Breeding

Like many Mbuna cichlids, Demason’s Cichlid is a maternal mouthbrooder. Males become highly aggressive during spawning, so adequate rock structures should be provided to create spawning territories. Flat rocks serve as ideal spawning sites. After fertilization, the female holds the eggs in her mouth for 2-3 weeks before releasing free-swimming fry. The fry can be fed on finely crushed spirulina flakes, cyclopeeze, or newly hatched brine shrimp to ensure proper growth.

Lifespan

With proper care, Pseudotropheus demasoni can live up to 8 years. Maintaining high water quality, a stable environment, and a proper diet is crucial for longevity.

Tank Requirements and Behavior

Demason’s Cichlid is highly territorial and aggressive, particularly toward its own species. It is best kept in a heavily stocked species-only tank to spread out aggression. A ratio of one male to multiple females will help reduce conflicts. The aquarium should be at least 150 liters (40 gallons) with plenty of rock structures to provide hiding spots and establish territories. Due to their high activity level and waste production, large weekly water changes are essential to maintain water quality.

Suitable Tankmates

Due to their aggressive nature, Demason’s Cichlids are best kept in species-only setups. However, if housed in a mixed Mbuna tank, they should only be kept with similarly aggressive species, such as:

• Yellow Lab Cichlid (Labidochromis caeruleus)
• Zebra Cichlid (Maylandia zebra)
• Auratus Cichlid (Melanochromis auratus)
• Slender Mbuna (Pseudotropheus elongatus)

Suitable Plants

Although Mbuna cichlids are known to uproot plants, certain hardy species can be used to enhance the tank’s aesthetics while improving water quality. Suitable plants include:

• Anubias (Anubias spp.)
• Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus)
• Vallisneria (Vallisneria spp.)

Short Description

Demason’s Cichlid (Pseudotropheus demasoni) is a strikingly beautiful but highly aggressive Mbuna species from Lake Malawi. Due to their territorial nature, they are best suited for species-only tanks or carefully managed Mbuna communities. They require a herbivorous diet, plenty of rockwork for shelter, and frequent water changes to maintain water quality. While they can be a challenge to keep, their vivid colors and lively behavior make them a rewarding addition for experienced cichlid keepers.

Picture

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk. Other picture was provided by our contributor.