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Iconic Malawi Mbuna cichlid – very territorial, best in a rocky species tank
Pseudotropheus demasoni 4–5 cm (Pseudotropheus demasoni) is an iconic Mbuna cichlid from Lake Malawi, famous for its striking electric blue and black stripes. Our specimens are currently 4–5 cm (juveniles/sub-adults) and will reach around 7–8 cm as adults. It belongs to our freshwater range and is primarily suited to a rocky Malawi species aquarium with strong filtration, aimed at informed, experienced aquarists.
This is a very territorial and aggressive species, especially between males. It is a social Mbuna that should be kept in a group of 10–12 fish or more to spread aggression. A harem-style group with more females than males (e.g. 1 male to 3–4 females) is strongly recommended.
For a group, we recommend at least 200 liters, with a heavily rock-based layout providing caves, crevices and visual barriers. A sandy substrate is ideal. Powerful, well-oxygenated filtration is essential, supported by starter bacteria and regular monitoring of water values using water tests.
Choose tankmates among other robust Mbuna with a similar temperament. Avoid species with a very similar colour pattern to reduce the risk of hybridisation.
A natural herbivore/aufwuchs grazer, Pseudotropheus demasoni feeds on algae and micro-organisms growing on rocks. Provide mainly spirulina-rich flakes and pellets or dedicated “green” foods for cichlids, supplemented with small amounts of blanched vegetables (courgette, spinach, peas).
Strongly limit very protein-rich animal foods (bloodworms, beef heart, etc.), as they can trigger “Malawi bloat”. Vary the diet using our specialised foods and feed several small meals per day, avoiding overfeeding.
Aim for water similar to that of the African Great Lakes: hard, alkaline and very stable. Before adding the fish, treat tap water with an appropriate water conditioner. Use a strong, efficient filter with good surface agitation to maximise oxygen levels, and maintain the aquarium using suitable maintenance tools and weekly water changes.
The species is sensitive to high nitrate levels and sudden changes in water chemistry. Prefer regular medium-sized water changes (e.g. 25–40 % per week) over occasional large ones.
Use a fine aquarium substrate (light sand) and plenty of stacked rocks to create a typical rocky Malawi habitat. With aquascaping hardscape (stones, modular structures), you can provide caves, hideouts and clearly defined territories.
Plants are not essential and may be dug up or nibbled. Some robust species (Anubias, Microsorum) attached to rocks can be used if desired. Complete the layout with suitable decorations and an appropriate lighting system that encourages a healthy layer of algae on the rocks.
| Scientific name | Pseudotropheus demasoni |
|---|---|
| Adult size | 7 – 8 cm |
| Origin | Lake Malawi (East Africa) |
| Temperature | 24 – 27 °C |
| pH | 7.6 – 8.5 |
| GH | 8 – 20 °dGH |
| KH | 6 – 12 °dKH |
| Conductivity | 250 – 500 µS |
| Life expectancy | 6 – 10 years (optimal conditions) |
| Behavior | Very territorial, aggressive towards conspecifics, best kept in a Mbuna group |
| Swimming zone | Middle / bottom, between rocks |
| Minimum volume | 200 L (group) |
| Diet type | Herbivore/aufwuchs grazer (algae, plant matter, “green” cichlid foods) |
To reduce aggression in your Pseudotropheus demasoni, combine a sufficiently large group with a dense rock layout and a fibre-rich, plant-based diet to help prevent “Malawi bloat”.
Stability = success: regularly check pH, hardness and nitrate levels using water tests and adjust your water change schedule accordingly.
Fish are shipped with great care in insulated, purpose-designed packaging to ensure their safety during transport.
When will my order be shipped?
We ship on Mondays and Tuesdays only. No shipments are made from Wednesday to Sunday inclusive.
Any order containing live animals must be placed before Monday at 10:00 am.
It will be shipped on Monday or Tuesday of the same week, depending on the destination.
How long will it take for my order to be delivered?
Delivery takes 24 hours (48 hours maximum) on weekdays.
No deliveries are made on weekends.
How will my order be shipped?
Via France Express, a carrier approved for the transport of animals.
Delivery is secure and the packaging is suitable (insulated boxes).
We add refrigerated packs in summer and heat packs in winter.
Where do you deliver?
Throughout mainland France, Belgium and Luxembourg.
Important: no deliveries will be made to pick-up points.
Do I need to be at home to receive the parcel?
Yes, you must be present.
You must be available at the specified time slot so that the delivery driver can hand-deliver the parcel.
Live animals are transported separately from other items. AquaBota is entitled to postpone a shipment in the event of adverse weather conditions.
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