(121) Duboisi Cichlid 2-3in

The Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus duboisi), also known as the White Spotted Cichlid, is a stunning and challenging African cichlid from Lake Tanganyika. It is primarily sought after for its dramatic color transformation from a spotted juvenile to a blue-headed adult with a wide band behind the pectoral fins.

• Tank size: A minimum of 75 gallons is required for a group. Due to their territorial nature, larger tanks are always better for dispersing aggression.
• Substrate: A sandy substrate, such as aragonite, is ideal. It helps buffer the water to the high pH necessary for Tanganyikan cichlids and accommodates their natural bottom-sifting behavior.
• Filtration: A powerful filtration system is essential, as these fish are intolerant of high nitrates and other water quality issues.
• Water parameters:
  • Temperature: Maintain a stable temperature of 75–82°F (24–28°C).
  • pH: A high pH of 7.8–9.0 is necessary to replicate their natural Lake Tanganyika habitat.
• Decorations: Aquascape the tank generously with plenty of rocks, caves, and crevices to create territories and hiding places. While some hardy plants may survive, Duboisi will nibble on or uproot most aquatic vegetation.
• Stocking: A group of 10 or more individuals is recommended to help spread out aggression. It is important to add all the fish at the same time, as introducing new members to an established group can cause intense fighting. 

• Herbivorous diet: Tropheus duboisi are obligate herbivores that cannot properly digest high-protein foods. A diet high in vegetable matter is crucial for preventing health issues like bloat.
• Food types: A diet of high-quality vegetable- and spirulina-based flakes and pellets is recommended. You can also offer blanched romaine lettuce or spinach on a feeding clip.
• Avoid: Do not feed meaty foods, as this can lead to digestive problems and illness. 

• Aggressive: While relatively peaceful toward other species, Duboisi are highly aggressive toward their own kind. They have complex social hierarchies that can be violent.
• Tank mates: It is often recommended to keep Duboisi in a species-only tank. In a very large aquarium, they may be housed with other smaller, semi-aggressive Tanganyikan or Malawian cichlids that occupy a different ecological niche.
• Incompatible companions: Avoid timid or slow-moving fish, as their activity level can intimidate less assertive species