Tropheus duboisi maswa

Common name: Maswa Tropheus
Origin: Lake Tanganyika, Africa (Maswa region)

Optimal living conditions:

• Temperature: 26 - 30°C
• pH: 7.8 - 9.0 (alkaline)
• Aquarium size: Minimum 200 liters, as they are active and need space to swim and establish territories.

Adult fish size: 10 - 12 cm

Diet: Tropheus duboisi Maswa is primarily herbivorous and thrives on a diet of high-quality spirulina-based pellets, algae wafers, and blanched vegetables (such as spinach and zucchini). They may occasionally eat some protein, but their primary food source should be plant matter. Overfeeding protein-rich foods can lead to health issues, so maintaining a balanced, plant-heavy diet is important.

Tankmates: These fish are best kept with other Tropheus species or peaceful Lake Tanganyika cichlids. They can be aggressive towards each other, so it's crucial to keep them in a well-structured tank with enough hiding spots and territories. They do well in groups of 6 or more, as this helps spread aggression and reduces stress among individuals. Avoid keeping them with species that are overly aggressive or too timid.

Note: Tropheus duboisi Maswa is a stunning and active cichlid, known for its vibrant blue and yellow coloration. This species tends to be territorial, especially around rocks and cave structures. It's essential to provide a tank with plenty of hiding places and territorial boundaries to minimize stress. They thrive in stable water conditions, and sudden changes in water parameters can cause them to become stressed or sick.

While Tropheus duboisi Maswa is a hardy species, they can be quite sensitive to poor water quality, so regular water changes and a strong filtration system are vital. These fish are also known to be slow growers and require a well-maintained tank to reach their full potential in terms of size and coloration.

Note: This species is often considered a challenging fish to keep due to its specific dietary and environmental needs, so it's ideal for experienced aquarium enthusiasts familiar with African cichlids.