Description
The Demasoni Cichlid, scientifically known as Pseudotropheus demasoni, is one of the most vibrant and visually stunning African cichlids in the hobby. With its bold black-and-electric-blue stripes, compact size, and energetic personality, this Cichlid fish adds incredible color and nonstop movement to any Lake Malawi aquarium.
Discovered in the Pombo Rocks region of Lake Malawi, the Demasoni Cichlid is a rock-dwelling mbuna species known for its territorial nature and iconic zebra-like pattern. Their alternating black and cobalt blue bands remain brilliant throughout their lives, unlike other species whose colors intensify only during breeding.
A Demasoni Cichlid reaches about 2.5–3 inches (6–7.5 cm), making it one of the smallest mbuna cichlids. Despite their size, their coloration is among the most vibrant in the African cichlid family. Males and females appear similar, though males may show deeper blues and more intense aggression
Demasoni Cichlids are highly aggressive mbuna, especially toward their own species or similarly patterned fish. However, with proper stocking and tank design, they thrive in energetic Lake Malawi community tanks. Keeping big colonies of 12+ Demasoni to spread aggression and providing plenty of caves, rocks, and hiding spaces to ensure the best living conditions for them.
Good Demasoni tank mates include Yellow Labs (Labidochromis caeruleus), Rusty Cichlids, Cynotilapia species, Acei Cichlids, and Red Zebra Cichlids. Avoid peaceful or fragile species.
At Splashy Fish tropical fish store, our Demasoni Cichlid for sale and other Cichlids for sale are tank-raised, healthy, and carefully selected for vivid coloration and optimal size. Shop online or visit our aquarium store in Virginia to discover high-quality freshwater fish for sale, betta fish for sale, freshwater shrimp for sale, aquatic plants, and essential aquarium supplies.
WHAT MAKES THIS FISH SPECIAL?
One of the most colorful mbuna cichlids
Intense blue-and-black striping
Small size but bold personality
Best kept in large groups (12+)
Ideal centerpiece fish for Malawi rock tanks
Active, territorial, and visually striking
RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS
Tank Size: Minimum 40 gallons for a colony
Temperature: 76°–82°F (24°–28°C)
pH: 7.8–8.6
Hardness: 10–20 dGH
Filtration: Strong flow and excellent biological filtration
CARE GUIDELINES
Diet: Herbivorous mbuna diet. Offer spirulina pellets, algae wafers, veggie flakes, and occasional frozen foods like brine shrimp. Avoid high-protein foods to prevent digestive issues.
Tank Setup: Rocky aquariums with caves, piles, and crevices. Provide many hiding spots to reduce territorial disputes.
Behavior: Highly territorial and aggressive. Works best in large colonies or with other mbuna that can hold their own.
See more detailed information on How to Care for Cichlid Fish here.
Demasoni Cichlid Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do Demasoni Cichlid fish live?
The typical Demasoni Cichlid lifespan is 7–10 years when kept in a properly maintained aquarium. Stable water parameters, high-quality filtration, a balanced herbivorous diet, and a large colony help ensure that Pseudotropheus demasoni live a long, healthy life. Clean water and low stress levels are essential for maximizing their lifespan.
What is the size of full grown Demasoni Cichlid?
A full-grown Demasoni Cichlid reaches about 2.5–3 inches (6–7.5 cm) in length. Though small compared to many African cichlids, their intense black-and-blue striping and bold personality make them one of the most striking mbuna species from Lake Malawi.
Is Demasoni Cichlid a Peacock?
No. The Demasoni Cichlid is not a Peacock Cichlid. Peacocks (Aulonocara species) are open-water, less aggressive Lake Malawi cichlids, while the Demasoni is a mbuna cichlid belonging to the genus Pseudotropheus. Mbuna are rock-dwelling, highly territorial, and display different color patterns and behaviors compared to Peacocks. Their needs and compatibility are also different, so they should not be confused or mixed without proper planning.
