Demasoni Rift Lake Cichlid, Cichlids, Tropical fish, Pet City
Demasoni Rift Lake Cichlid, Cichlids, Tropical fish, Pet City

Demasoni Rift Lake Cichlid

$39.99 NZD $34.99 NZD Save 13% Sold out
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Live Fish

Size: x 1
  • DOA Cover*
  • Insulated Box & Heat Pads
Shipping & Returns

All live fish are shipped using NZPost overnight services with authority to leave (no signature).

We cannot guarantee the overnight services, this is a service that we/you pay for; but is not guaranteed.

We DO NOT offer returns on any alive animal.

Above are key points of our policy, Click Here to read our full shipping policy.
Dead On Arrival (DOA) Cover*
  • DOA must be reported within 2 hours of delivery.
  • Bags must remain sealed (do not remove rubber band or tape)
  • Photos & Videos must be supplied this can be emailed or sent through live chat; including your order No. (minimum 3 clear images, showing dead fish & sealed bag)
  • DOA does not apply once the bags are opened & fish have been released.
  • DOA does not apply to any Rural (RD) address.

Click Here for DOA Cover Policy
Introducing New Fish

Follow these steps to minimize stress and ensure a smooth transition for your new fish!

  1. Float the Bag: Place the sealed bag containing the new fish in the tank. This equalizes the temperature between bag and tank water.
  2. Open and Add Tank Water Gradually: After about 5 minutes, open the bag and add a small amount of aquarium water into it every 5 minutes for 15–30 minutes. This helps the fish acclimate to the tank’s water chemistry.
  3. Wait 15–30 Minutes: Let the fish adjust to the water temperature and chemistry gradually in the bag.
  4. Release Fish: Gently release the fish into the tank without pouring the original bag water in.
Size

Demasoni Rift Lake Cichlid

The Demasoni Cichlid (Pseudotropheus demasoni), also known as Chindongo demasoni, is a vibrant and captivating freshwater fish endemic to the rocky shores of Lake Malawi, specifically around Pombo Rocks in Tanzanian waters . Renowned for its striking coloration and dynamic behavior, this species is a favorite among experienced aquarists.

Species Overview

  • Scientific Name: Pseudotropheus demasoni (synonym: Chindongo demasoni)

  • Common Names: Demasoni Cichlid, Dwarf Mbuna

  • Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa

  • Size: Typically 2.5–3 inches (6.4–7.6 cm), occasionally up to 4 inches (10 cm) in captivity

  • Lifespan: 8–10 years with proper care

Appearance

Demasoni Cichlids exhibit a bold pattern of alternating dark blue to black and light blue to white vertical stripes across their bodies. Both sexes share this coloration, making visual sexing challenging. However, mature males tend to be slightly larger and may display more intense coloration .

Behavior & Temperament

This species is known for its high aggression and territorial nature, especially among males. In the wild, they inhabit rocky areas and are accustomed to complex social structures. In captivity, it's recommended to keep them in groups of 12 or more to disperse aggression and prevent dominant individuals from targeting subordinates .

Aquarium Requirements

  • Tank Size: Minimum 208 liters for a group; larger tanks are preferable

  • Water Temperature: 24–28°C

  • pH Level: 7.6–8.8

  • Water Hardness: 10–25 dGH

  • Aquascape: Provide ample rock formations, caves, and hiding spots to mimic their natural habitat and allow territory establishment .

Diet

Primarily herbivorous, Demasoni Cichlids feed on algae and plant matter in the wild. In captivity, their diet should consist mainly of vegetable-based foods such as spirulina flakes, blanched spinach, and zucchini. Occasional protein sources like brine shrimp can be offered sparingly. Avoid high-protein or fatty foods, as these can lead to health issues like Malawi Bloat

Breeding

Demasoni Cichlids are maternal mouthbrooders. During spawning, the female lays eggs on a flat surface, then collects them in her mouth for incubation, which lasts about 2–3 weeks. Post-release, the fry can be fed finely crushed spirulina flakes or newly hatched brine shrimp

Tank Mates

Due to their aggressive nature, it's best to house Demasoni Cichlids with other robust Mbuna species that do not resemble them in coloration to prevent territorial disputes. Suitable tank mates include Yellow Lab Cichlid (Labidochromis caeruleus)

  • Acei Cichlid (Pseudotropheus acei)

  • Rusty Cichlid (Iodotropheus sprengerae)

Avoid housing them with peaceful or similarly colored species to minimize aggression .

***Photos for reference only*** If you like updated photo please contact us and we will send you photos/video of actual fish that you are purchasing.

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