TROPHEUS DUBOISI MASWA WILD CAUGHT

The Tropheus duboisi Maswa is a vibrant and unique species of cichlid from the Tropheus genus, native to the Lake Tanganyika region of East Africa. Known for its striking color patterns and territorial nature, this species is popular among cichlid enthusiasts. Its bright yellow and black coloration, particularly in males, makes it an eye-catching addition to African cichlid aquariums.

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size:
  • Due to its territorial nature and the fact that it thrives in schools, the Tropheus duboisi Maswa should be kept in a minimum tank size of 75 gallons (284 liters). Larger tanks are ideal, especially if you’re planning to keep multiple individuals or tankmates.
• Tank Setup:
  • Substrate: A fine gravel or sand substrate mimics its natural habitat. Ensure it is smooth to prevent any injury to the fish’s barbels.
  • Decor: Provide plenty of rockwork with caves and crevices for hiding. This cichlid is territorial and will often claim its own space. A rocky aquascape that allows them to form territories is ideal.
  • Plants: The Tropheus duboisi Maswa can tolerate plants but tends to disturb them. Use robust plants like Anubias and Java fern. Floating plants can help dim lighting and provide hiding spots.
  • Water Flow: This species prefers moderate water flow, similar to its natural environment in Lake Tanganyika. A good-quality canister filter will help maintain clean water.

Water Parameters

• Temperature:
  • The Tropheus duboisi Maswa thrives in temperatures between 75°F and 80°F (24°C–27°C).
• pH:
  • They require alkaline water, with a pH range of 8.0–9.0.
• Hardness:
  • These cichlids prefer hard water, with a dGH of 10–15.
• Ammonia/Nitrite:
  • Both ammonia and nitrite should be maintained at 0 ppm.
• Nitrate:
  • Nitrate levels should be kept below 20 ppm for optimal health.

Diet

The Tropheus duboisi Maswa is primarily herbivorous and has specific dietary needs. In the wild, it feeds on algae and biofilm that grow on rocks and other surfaces. To maintain their health and vibrant coloration, it’s essential to replicate their natural diet.

• Algae: In the aquarium, they will graze on algae that grows naturally on surfaces. You can also provide algae wafers and spirulina-based foods as a staple in their diet.
• Vegetables: Offer blanched vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, and sweet potatoes to supplement their diet.
• High-Quality Pellets: Provide high-quality herbivore pellets that contain spirulina or chlorella to ensure they get the proper nutrients.
• Feeding Frequency:
  • Feed the Tropheus duboisi Maswa once or twice a day, offering a small amount of food to prevent overfeeding, as they are prone to bloating and digestive issues.

Behavior and Compatibility

• Temperament:
  • The Tropheus duboisi Maswa is known for being territorial and somewhat aggressive, especially towards its own kind. It’s recommended to keep them in groups of at least 6–8 individuals to help disperse aggression. Males may exhibit territorial behavior, but a large group helps mitigate this.
  • They are peaceful toward other species but can be aggressive toward smaller or similarly territorial tankmates.
• Tankmates:
  • This species is best kept with other Lake Tanganyika cichlids that are of similar size and temperament. Compatible tankmates include:
    • Other Tropheus species
    • Cyprichromis
    • Altolamprologus species
  • Avoid keeping them with smaller fish or more peaceful species that might be bullied or outcompeted for food.
  • A large group of Tropheus duboisi Maswa will help reduce stress and territorial aggression.

Breeding

Breeding Tropheus duboisi Maswa in captivity is possible, but it can be challenging due to their territorial and aggressive nature. Here are some general breeding guidelines:

1. Breeding Tank Setup:
   • A separate breeding tank of 75 gallons or more with plenty of rocks and caves for hiding. The female needs a quiet, safe place to hold her eggs and fry.
2. Conditioning:
   • To encourage breeding, condition both the male and female with a high-quality diet rich in protein and spirulina. Provide a varied diet for several weeks before introducing them to the breeding tank.
3. Spawning:
   • Like other Tropheus species, the Tropheus duboisi Maswa is a mouthbrooder. The female carries the fertilized eggs in her mouth until they hatch into fry, typically after 4–6 weeks.
   • After hatching, the female will continue to hold the fry in her mouth for several more weeks until they are large enough to swim freely.
   • Ensure the tank is equipped with hiding spots for the fry to reduce predation.

Common Challenges

1. Bloating and Digestive Issues:
   • Like many Tropheus species, the Tropheus duboisi Maswa is prone to bloating due to overfeeding or improper diet. To prevent this, feed small amounts multiple times a day and avoid overfeeding.
2. Aggression and Territorial Behavior:
   • The Tropheus duboisi Maswa can become aggressive, especially during breeding or when males establish territories. Keeping them in large groups helps mitigate aggression.
   • Avoid introducing new individuals into the tank once a group has established territories.
3. Water Quality:
   • The Tropheus duboisi Maswa requires pristine water conditions, particularly stable pH and hardness. Regular water changes and good filtration are essential to keeping the tank healthy.

Care Summary

Aspect	Details
Tank Size	Minimum 75 gallons, larger preferred
Water Parameters	pH 8.0–9.0, 75°F–80°F, hard, alkaline water
Diet	Algae, spirulina pellets, blanched vegetables
Temperament	Territorial, best kept in groups of 6–8 or more
Lifespan	10–15 years or more

The Tropheus duboisi Maswa is a captivating cichlid with vibrant colors and a strong personality. With careful attention to their specific water and dietary needs, as well as providing ample space and hiding spots, this species can thrive in a well-maintained aquarium. Although they can be challenging to breed, their fascinating behavior and striking appearance make them a rewarding addition to any Lake Tanganyika cichlid enthusiast’s collection.

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size:
  • A minimum of 10 gallons is suitable for a small group of Red Phantom Tetras, but a larger tank (20 gallons or more) is preferable if you plan to keep a larger school or multiple species.
• Tank Setup:
  • Substrate: Use a soft, fine-gravel or sand substrate. The substrate should be smooth to avoid injury to the tetras, as they often swim close to the bottom and in between plants.
  • Decor:
    • Provide plants, especially floating plants and dense greenery, which help mimic the fish’s natural environment in shaded waters.
    • Driftwood and rocks also help replicate the conditions of the Amazon River, where these fish are found.
  • Lighting: The Red Phantom Tetra prefers moderate lighting, as it comes from shaded waters. Dim lighting will help enhance its natural color and reduce stress.
• Water Flow:
  • These tetras thrive in slow to moderate water flow. Avoid strong currents, as they come from areas with calm waters.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C)
• pH: 5.5–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
• Hardness: 2–15 dGH (soft to moderately hard water)
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm; nitrates should be kept below 20 ppm.
• Water Changes: Perform regular 20-30% water changes weekly to maintain water quality, as tetras are sensitive to poor water conditions.