Duboisi Cichlid by LiveAquaria
The Tropheus Duboisi Cichlid originates from the rocky coastal waters of Northern Lake Tanganyika, Africa. As juveniles, they are completely black with many white spots. As they mature, the spots fade and their heads develop a blue coloration. A distinct wide yellow band appears just behind the pectoral fins.
Like other Tropheus species, Duboisi cichlids are highly aggressive toward their own kind and require a group of at least six individuals. They thrive best in species-specific aquariums or with other smaller, semi-aggressive Tanganyikan or Malawian cichlids.
Water Conditions
| Parameter | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Water Temperature | 76°F to 82°F |
| Water pH | 7.8 to 8.6 |
| Water Hardness | 8 to 12 dGH |
| Minimum Tank Size | 50 gallons |
FAQ
What is the color pattern of a mature Duboisi Cichlid?
As they mature, the white spots fade and the head develops a blue coloration. A wide yellow band appears just behind the pectoral fins.
How many Duboisi Cichlids should be kept together?
They should be housed in groups of at least six to reduce aggression and promote social stability.
What type of tank setup is recommended?
A large tank of at least 50 gallons with rocky, complex structures to mimic their natural habitat in Lake Tanganyika.
Edward Vance –
I kept a group of six Duboisi cichlids in a 75-gallon tank with plenty of rocks. After a few weeks, the fish started showing their blue heads and yellow bands. They’re very active and territorial, so I had to ensure the tank had enough hiding spots. The aggression is intense, but with proper group size, they coexist well.
Carl Davies –
The fish look stunning when they mature. I started with juveniles and watched the color change over several months. They need a large tank and a lot of space, but once settled, they’re quite peaceful with compatible species.
John Stewart –
I tried keeping them alone, which didn’t work. They became extremely aggressive and damaged the tank decorations. After adding five more of the same species, the behavior improved significantly. Now they share the space better.