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Hobbyist bred fish 

Demasoni 

Pseudotropheus demasoni

Native Location: Lake Malawi, Africa

Climate: Tropical

Maximum Size: 7.5cm

Temperament: Aggressive

Diet: Omnivore

Breeding: Easy

Temperature Range: 24-28℃ (75-82℉)

Preferred pH Range: 7.6-8.8

Minimum Aquarium Size: 120cm x 45cm x 40cm (200l+)

Potential Tankmates: Only similar-sized aggressive Mbuna.

Care Level: Moderate

Pseudotropheus demasoni, commonly known as the Demasoni cichlid, thrives in the rocky, underwater landscapes of Lake Malawi in Africa. This striking fish is renowned for its vibrant blue and black vertical stripes that cover its body, making it a dazzling spectacle among the aquatic community. Its natural habitat is characterised by the lake's labyrinth of rocks and caves, providing ample hiding spots from predators and areas to establish territories. The rocky terrain also supports a rich growth of algae, which forms a significant part of the Demasoni cichlid's diet. These fish prefer the shallow waters along the shores of Lake Malawi, where sunlight can penetrate easily, fostering algae growth on the rocks' surfaces. The Demasoni cichlid's bold colouration, combined with its dynamic habitat, contributes to its popularity among aquarium enthusiasts, who seek to replicate the intricate environment of Lake Malawi in their home tanks.

Setting up an aquarium at home for the Demasoni cichlid requires attention to detail to mimic its natural habitat of Lake Malawi, ensuring a thriving environment for these vibrant fish. Start with a medium to large tank, as Demasoni cichlids are active swimmers and enjoy ample space. The substrate should be sand or fine gravel, simulating the lake's bottom. Incorporate plenty of rocks and caves to provide hiding spaces and territories, essential for reducing stress and aggression among these territorial fish. Selecting tankmates can be tricky due to the aggressiveness of this fish. Avoid similar-looking mbuna and only add equally aggressive cichlids.

The diet of Pseudotropheus demasoni is mainly algae-based. To replicate their natural feeding habits in a home aquarium, encourage algae growth on surfaces and supplement with spirulina-based flakes or pellets for additional nutrients. Offering fresh vegetables like blanched spinach occasionally can also enrich their diet. Avoid overfeeding and minimise high-protein and fatty foods, as these fish have specialised digestive systems. This dietary approach ensures their health and enhances their vibrant colouration, making them a captivating presence in the aquarium.

Breeding Pseudotropheus demasoni involves creating a conducive environment that mimics their natural Lake Malawi habitat. Ensure the aquarium has plenty of rocks and caves to offer hiding spots and territories, which is critical for stimulating breeding behavior. Maintain water quality with a pH level between 7.8 to 8.6 and temperatures around 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C). Demasoni cichlids are mouthbrooders; the female lays eggs and immediately takes them into her mouth, where fertilization occurs. After fertilization, she carries the eggs in her mouth for about three weeks until the fry are ready to be released. During this period, providing the female with a stress-free environment is essential, as excessive stress can cause her to eat the eggs or fry. Once the fry are released, finely crushed flakes or specially formulated fry food can be fed. Successful breeding requires careful attention to the tank's conditions and the behavior of the fish to ensure the safety and health of both the brooding females and the fry.

Dead on Arrival (DOA) Policy: In the unfortunate event that your fish arrives dead, please follow these steps: Within 12 hours of the delivery, take clear, unopened bag pictures showing the deceased fish. Send these photographs and your order number to our customer service email at [email protected] or to our Facebook page, and we will then offer a refund or store credit for the cost of the fish. 

Two-Week Guarantee Policy: We stand behind the health and quality of our fish, which is why we offer a two-week guarantee starting from the day of delivery. If your fish dies within this time frame, adhere to the following procedure: Take clear photos of the deceased fish. Using a reliable test kit, document water parameters (pH, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite levels) via a dated image. Please email us the photographs, water parameters, and order number to [email protected] or our Facebook page. After reviewing your claim, if approved, we will issue a store credit for the cost of the fish. Our two-week guarantee does not cover fish deaths due to unsuitable water conditions, incompatible tank mates or "disasters", i.e. a heater overheating. To prevent such situations, we recommend thoroughly researching each fish species' needs before introducing them to your aquarium. 

 Freight Charges: Please note that shipping or freight charges are non-refundable under all circumstances. We hope this guide makes our refund and guarantee process more understandable. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please contact us at [email protected]. We are always happy to assist. Thank you for choosing The Fish Room. Happy fishkeeping! 

All our fish are quarantined on arrival for two weeks. During this time, we treat any health issues that may occur during transport and ensure each fish is eating well and looking healthy. All fish are treated with Flubendazole before finally going on sale.