Pseudotropheus demasoni

Family: Cichlidae

Pseudotropheus demasoni — a Cichlidae from Africa. Reaches 7.5–11 cm; keep at 24–28 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
24–28 °C
pH
6.5–8
GH hardness
5–19 dGH
Adult length
7.5–11 cm
Minimum tank
145 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding
Origin
Africa

Species overview

A Cichlidae species native to Africa: Pseudotropheus demasoni lives bottom-dwelling over lakes and slow rivers with structure. Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding. Adults reach 7.5–11 cm. In a community tank it pairs well with Similar-sized peaceful community fish.

Native biotope

Habitat
Lakes and slow rivers with structure
Flow
Still to gentle current
Dissolved O₂
Moderate

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Sand with rock piles
Hardscape
Stones, caves and broken lines of sight
Plants
Hardy species that tolerate digging

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Pairs or singles with defined territory
Diet
Omnivore to carnivore; quality prepared foods
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Often striking; males larger and brighter
Breeding method
Substrate or cave spawner with parental care

Frequently asked questions

Is Pseudotropheus demasoni easy to keep?

Difficulty: moderate. Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding. Pairs or singles with defined territory.

What temperature and water chemistry does Pseudotropheus demasoni need?

Set the heater to 24–28 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.5–8, GH 5–19 dGH suit it.

How big does Pseudotropheus demasoni get, and what tank size?

Full size is 7.5–11 cm. Minimum tank: 145 L, with open swimming space along its bottom-dwelling habits.

What does Pseudotropheus demasoni eat?

Omnivore to carnivore; quality prepared foods. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Pseudotropheus demasoni live with other fish?

Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding. Recommended tankmates: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Avoid Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Pseudotropheus demasoni come from?

Native to Africa, where it lives in lakes and slow rivers with structure. Still to gentle current; Moderate.

Does Pseudotropheus demasoni jump?

Low escape risk, but a lid is cheap insurance.

How does Pseudotropheus demasoni breed?

Substrate or cave spawner with parental care. Often striking; males larger and brighter.