Duboisi Cichlid
Tropheus duboisi
Description
The Duboisi Cichlid is a stunning and unique species of cichlid known for its striking coloration and somewhat territorial behavior. The body of the Duboisi is generally a dark brown or black color with bright yellow spots or markings along its body, giving it a vibrant and contrasting appearance. The spots are typically arranged in a pattern along the sides of the fish. As with other species in the Tropheus genus, the males tend to be larger and more brightly colored than the females, especially in the wild. They have a slightly compressed, oval-shaped body, with a high dorsal fin and an inquisitive, bold personality. These cichlids are active and require a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spots. They are known for being somewhat territorial and should be kept with other similarly-sized cichlids in well-established groups to prevent aggression.
Habitat Origin
Native to the rocky shores of Lake Tanganyika in East Africa, where they inhabit rocky areas and feed on algae growing on the rocks. These cichlids are adapted to the high pH and mineral-rich waters of the lake and prefer well-oxygenated environments. They are commonly found in shallow waters with plenty of hiding spots among rocks and crevices.
Aquarium
Ideal Number in Aquarium: At least 6 individuals, as they are social and feel more secure in groups. However, the tank must be large enough to prevent territorial disputes.
Favorite Food
Duboisi Cichlids are primarily herbivores and feed mainly on algae and plant material found in their natural habitat. In captivity, they can be fed high-quality spirulina-based pellets, blanched vegetables such as zucchini and spinach, and occasional algae wafers. They will also accept some protein-based foods, such as frozen or live brine shrimp and bloodworms, but their diet should be predominantly plant-based. Providing them with a diet that mimics their natural feeding habits will help maintain their health and vibrant coloration.
Behavior:
Duboisi Cichlids are active and bold fish, but they are also territorial, especially when it comes to breeding or feeding areas. They often establish dominance within a group, and it is essential to provide plenty of hiding spots and territories within the tank. While they are not highly aggressive, they may chase or show aggression toward other fish that invade their space. These cichlids are not ideal for a community tank with smaller, peaceful fish, as their territorial nature can cause stress to more timid species. However, they are generally peaceful within a group of their own kind, as long as the tank is large enough to accommodate their territorial needs. Duboisi Cichlids enjoy a tank that mimics their natural rocky environment, so providing plenty of rocks and caves is key
Special Care:
Duboisi Cichlids require stable water conditions, especially when it comes to pH and hardness. They thrive in alkaline, hard water with plenty of dissolved minerals, similar to the conditions of Lake Tanganyika. Regular water changes, strong filtration, and careful monitoring of water quality are essential for keeping them healthy. It is important to provide them with a tank that has plenty of rockwork and hiding spots to create territories and reduce aggression. They are sensitive to poor water quality and may become stressed if tank conditions are not maintained properly.
Compatibility with Other Fish:
Duboisi Cichlids are best kept with other cichlids that can tolerate their territorial nature and high pH water conditions. Species from the same genus, Tropheus, are commonly kept together, as they have similar care requirements and behavior. However, they should not be kept with small or overly peaceful species, as their territorial aggression could cause harm to more timid fish. Other large, robust cichlids that thrive in hard, alkaline water are suitable tankmates. It’s important to ensure that there is enough space for each fish to establish its own territory to prevent stress and aggression.
Breeding Setup
A separate breeding tank is highly recommended for Duboisi Cichlids due to their territorial nature. This setup allows for better water quality control and reduces aggression. A 200-liter (50-gallon) tank or larger is ideal, offering enough space for a breeding pair and reducing stress. Maintain pH between 7.8–8.5, temperature between 26°C–30°C, and hardness at 10–15 dGH. Use moderate-flow filtration, such as a sponge or internal filter, and provide a rocky substrate with caves for spawning. Avoid bright lighting; instead, use low to moderate intensity to mimic their natural lake habitat.
Conditioning for Breeding
Feed Duboisi Cichlids a high-protein, varied diet to encourage breeding readiness. Offer high-quality pellets, frozen brine shrimp, bloodworms, and spirulina-based vegetable foods to ensure balanced nutrition. Conditioning both sexes with a rich, diverse diet improves their overall health and egg production. Conduct weekly 25% water changes to keep the environment clean and chemically stable, which is critical for initiating spawning behaviors.
Spawning Process
Duboisi Cichlids are maternal mouthbrooders. The male courts the female through visual displays and body movements, encouraging her to lay eggs in a rocky crevice or open area. The female lays 10–30 eggs, which she immediately collects in her mouth. The male then fertilizes them externally. After fertilization, the female incubates the eggs in her mouth for about 3–4 weeks, during which time she will eat very little or not at all. The male does not participate in parental care post-spawning.
Fry Care
After the incubation period, the female releases free-swimming fry, though she may still take them back into her mouth for protection initially. Feed the fry infusoria, microscopic algae, or liquid fry food once released. As they grow, introduce baby brine shrimp or finely crushed sinking pellets. Maintain high water quality with daily 10–15% water changes, keeping the temperature between 26–30°C, and carefully monitor ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels to prevent toxicity.
Important Notes
Duboisi Cichlids become sexually mature around 1 to 2 years of age. Males are usually slimmer with longer fins, while females appear rounder, especially when brooding. During courtship, males exhibit intensified coloration to attract females. These fish are territorial, so proper tank size, plenty of hiding spaces, and a stable, peaceful environment are essential to minimize stress and ensure successful breeding outcomes.