Care Level: Easy

Temperament: Aggressive

Live Plant Safe: No

General Description: The Demasoni Cichlid is endemic to shallow rocky areas of Lake Malawi, rarely observed in open water. Given this specific habitat niche, Demasoni require a network of rock caves and hiding places in the aquarium. One of the most aggressive African cichlids, Demasoni may be referred to as a ‘mbuna’, which is a general term to characterize various Malawian cichlid species that share a similar body shape and belligerent temperament. Unmistakable for the bold vertical dark blue and black stripes on its body, Demasoni are relatively easy to care for but their territorial nature may make them best left to the more advanced aquarist. Demasoni should be kept in an overcrowded tank with other like-temperamented heterospecific fish to spread out or reduce aggression, especially if you are trying to keep multiple Demasoni. There are few diagnosable differences between male and female Demasoni. An adult Demasoni can reach a size of approximately 3 to 4″.

Diet Requirements: Demasoni are primarily herbivorous and such foods should make up a large portion of their diet. Various high quality vegetable and spirulina based flake foods and sinking pellet foods are ideal. Frozen spirulina brine shrimp can be fed in moderation. Blanched vegetables are excellent options. Variety is the spice of life in order to maintain color, immune function and longevity of your fish. Demasoni should not be fed a diet high in protein, and avoid beef heart altogether, as this disturbs their digestive system.

Care Requirements: An established minimum 55 gallon aquarium is ideal for a single Demasoni. Biweekly water changes are encouraged to keep water parameters up to standard (Nitrates < 30 ppm). The aquarium should be aquascaped generously with stacked rocks to create many hiding spaces and caves. Demasoni are indifferent to open swimming space because this is an area in which they rarely explore in the wild. A sandy or fine substrate is preferred and the aquarium needs to be well oxygenated. African cichlid specific substrates, or even marine Aragonite substrate, are great choices because they will buffer the pH and alkalinity to levels characteristic of Lake Malawi. Demasoni will do well with other pugnacious Malawian cichlids; avoid more “peaceful” species, such as peacocks. Recommended water conditions, 74-80° F, KH 10-25, pH 7.5-8.5.

Purchase Size: Small: 1-1/4” to 1-1/2”; Medium: 1-3/4” to 2-1/4”; Large: 2-1/2 to 3”

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.