Demasoni Cichlid (Chindongo)

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Endemic to Lake Malawi (Africa), located exclusively near the rocky reefs of Pombo Rocks (Tanzania). Swims in shallow, high-turbulence waters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Demasoni Cichlid (Chindongo demasoni). Formerly known as Pseudotropheus demasoni, it is a dwarf "Mbuna" cichlid that does not exceed 7-8 cm (3 inches) in length. Compact profile and flattened snout.

Social Behavior: EXTREMELY aggressive, fierce territorial defender. Tends to furiously attack conspecifics and any fish with a blue/black livery. MUST BE KEPT IN COLONIES of 12+ individuals to dilute the violence or they will kill each other.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Alternating vertical stripes of bright blue and dark navy blue almost black. Wonderful and unmistakable. The two sexes are indistinguishable (monomorphic); even submissive males fade to escape the attacks of the alpha.

Aquarium Setup: At least 100-120 cm (40-48 inches). Controlled overcrowding and massive rock barrier (piles of stones up to the surface) indispensable. The numerous dens allow submissive specimens or incubating females to save themselves.

Diet and Feeding: Strictly herbivorous ("Mbuna" means "rock hitter"). In nature it scrapes the algal cover ("Aufwuchs"). In the aquarium it needs flakes of only spirulina and vegetables. ANIMAL PROTEINS KILL IT.

Water Quality: Hard and alkaline water (pH 7.8-8.6, high GH). Exaggerated biological filtration is a must to manage the organic load of the overcrowding required by this species.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Can only be paired with other non-blue and non-vertically striped Mbuna (e.g. yellow Labidochromis caeruleus), of similar temperament. Avoid peaceful Aulonocara or any normal river fish.

Aquarium Reproduction: Prolific maternal mouthbrooder. The male attracts the female into a crevice with crazy vibrations. The female will hold the eggs in her mouth without eating for 3 weeks.

Risks and Diseases: "Malawi Bloat" is the #1 plague: caused by an elongated intestine blocked by incorrect food (e.g. bloodworms, discus food) or severe stress. Often fatal in 48 hours.