Duboisi cichlids are native to the rocky coastal waters of Northern Lake Tanganyika in Africa. Here they can be found down to a depth of 30m.
Tropheus duboisi cichlids have an almost black body with bright yellow midsection stripes.
Juveniles often feature white to blue polka spots on their faces, but as they grow older these marks fade and are replaced by stunning bands of vibrant color.
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Feeding
Duboisi cichlids (Tropheus duboisi) are endemic to Northern Lake Tanganyika in Africa and live on rocky substrates up to 30 meters deep. As such, they have been listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as Vulnerable.
Juvenile duboisi cichlids are covered in white to bluish polka spots that fade to become vibrant bands of color as they mature. This species of cichlid is widely considered one of the world’s most stunning-looking fishes due to its stunning beauty.
Duboisi cichlids feed on hard filamentous algae attached to rocks as well as microorganisms they support in nature. When kept in captivity, these cichlids can be fed spirulina flakes or pellet foods for additional nutrition.
In addition to these foods, fish keepers can also add romaine or spinach. These veggies are packed with fiber and vitamins as well as providing a good source of protein. It’s recommended that they be served at least once daily.
Water conditions
Tropheus duboisi, commonly referred to as white-spotted cichlids, are found living among the rocks of Lake Tanganyika. These black fish have white spots all over their bodies with a bold contrasting band in the middle that stands out sharply against their background.
Cichlids can be highly aggressive and territorial; for this reason, it’s best to keep them in a species-specific tank with multiple females. Doing this helps divide aggression and violence among them and increases the chance for successful breeding.
They are particularly vulnerable to African bloat, which occurs when protozoan parasites in their digestive tract multiply. Excess salty water and protein-rich food may contribute to this condition.
To encourage them to thrive, set up a large aquarium with plenty of hiding places such as rock piles, caves and marbles. Additionally, add some PVC pipes for protection for female fish.
Diet
Tropheus duboisi is one of Africa’s most beloved cichlids, distinguished by its striking black-and-white stripes. Native to Lake Tanganyika in Africa, this species undergoes a dramatic color transition as an adult.
Breeding Tropheus duboisi cichlids in captivity can be challenging, but with patience and careful selection you can achieve healthy fish. For best results, keep them in groups of at least 12 females plus one male.
They are highly active species that requires plenty of water movement, a reliable filtration system and stable environmental conditions to thrive. Their ideal habitat is hard alkaline water with a pH range between 7.5-8.5 and temperatures ranging between 74 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Feed your pup a balanced diet composed of sinking pellets, vegetable flakes and frozen daphnia. Be sure to feed in small portions as overfeeding may cause bloating. As an additional supplement, add spirulina algae granules or flake foods for extra nutrition.
Care
If you’re searching for an African cichlid that’s both stunning and easy to maintain, Tropheus duboisi is your perfect choice. This endemic species hails from Lake Tanganyika where it thrives in the rocky waters along its shoreline.
Cichlids are territorial, aggressive and active swimmers. To maintain a peaceful environment for them, they should be kept in an aquarium of at least 75 gallons depending on group size.
They are highly opportunistic fish that require a consistent water temperature and pH level to remain healthy. Maintain optimal nitrate and iodine concentrations to keep your aquatic friends in top condition.
This cichlid is a surface spawning mouthbrooder, meaning that it lays its eggs near the water’s surface. It’s known for taking great care of its fry.
When brooding, female fish can hold their offspring in their mouth for an extended period. If the male starts harassing her while holding her eggs or fries in her mouth, hang 4-5 inch long pieces of PVC pipe from the tank edge with monofilament to protect her.
