Our Guide To Keeping Demanson's Cichlid Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Chindongo demasoni
   • Common name: Demanson's Cichlid
   • Family: Cichlidae
   • Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
   • Adult length: Approximately 8 cm (3 inches)
   • Lifespan: 8 to 10 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Demanson's Cichlids prefer a rocky aquarium setup mimicking their natural habitat in Lake Malawi. Use plenty of caves, rocks, and hiding spots to create territories.
   • Provide a tank size of at least 75 gallons for a small group.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Maintain a pH level between 7.5 to 8.5.
   • Water temperature should be kept between 24 to 28°C (75 to 82°F).

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • Strong filtration is necessary to maintain water quality in their rocky environment. Ensure adequate water flow without creating strong currents.

5. Diet:

   • Demanson's Cichlids are omnivores. Offer them a varied diet including high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.
   • Supplement their diet with vegetables like spirulina flakes or blanched vegetables.

6. Tank mates:

   • They can be kept with other Lake Malawi cichlids of similar size and temperament. Avoid housing them with aggressive or overly territorial species.
   • Consider tank mates like Yellow Labs, Acei Cichlids, or other peaceful Malawi cichlids.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Demanson's Cichlids are territorial, especially males. Provide plenty of hiding spots and territories to reduce aggression.
   • They exhibit fascinating behaviors and are best kept in a species-only tank or with other Lake Malawi cichlids in a large, well-decorated tank.