An iconic Lake Tanganyika cichlid famous for its dramatic life-stage color change. Juveniles are jet black with brilliant white polka-dots, while adults develop a blue head and a distinctive yellow or white vertical band across a dark body. They are highly aggressive toward their own kind and must be kept in large colonies (10+) to disperse aggression. They are strict herbivores that require a specialized diet to avoid fatal digestive issues.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
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Water Parameters
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Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard Adult
The adult form features a blue head and a solid dark body broken by a striking yellow or white vertical band. Fiercely territorial. Requires a strict herbivore diet (spirulina/algae) to prevent fatal 'Malawi/Tropheus bloat'.
Same care requirements as the base species
Also known as: Adult Duboisi, Yellow Band, White Band
Juvenile (White Spotted)
Jet black body covered in bright white or pale blue spots. This beautiful pattern fades entirely as the fish matures (usually starting around 2-3 inches). Juveniles can be kept in slightly smaller grow-out tanks but will eventually need a 4-foot tank as they grow and aggression increases.
Differs in 5 traits from base species
Also known as: White Spotted Cichlid, Baby Duboisi, Polka Dot Cichlid, Starry Night
Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) Care Guide Summary
The Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus), scientifically known as Tropheus duboisi, belongs to the Cichlids - African family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 12 cm and have a compressed body shape with a slow growth rate. Classified as aggressive, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a high level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 280 litres and a tank length of at least 120 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 24°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 8–9 and a general hardness of 10–25 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred. An aquarium test kit can help you monitor these values.
Due to its specialist needs, the Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) is best suited for fishkeepers who can provide a carefully planned setup. This species is available in 2 varieties: Standard Adult and Juvenile (White Spotted). Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus), a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the mid-level and bottom zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include a sand substrate to accommodate their sifting behaviour, smooth gravel or rounded substrate to protect their sensitive barbels, and an established tank with natural algae growth, as they depend on it as a primary food source. Keepers should note that expect substrate disturbance, so lightweight décor should be secured and live planted layouts may be difficult to maintain, as this species tends to uproot or consume vegetation. Browse aquarium sand substrate options to find the best fit.
Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) Compatibility Notes
Classified as aggressive, the Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) is a schooling species that feels most secure in a sizeable group, where natural shoaling behaviour reduces stress and brings out their best colours. When choosing tankmates, conspecific aggression can be intense, especially in smaller tanks, territorial behaviour may cause issues if hiding spots or floor space are limited, shy or slow-feeding tankmates may be outcompeted at feeding time, and their energetic swimming style may stress more sedentary or timid species. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the mid-level and bottom zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus).
75 Gallon Standard
90 Gallon Standard
125 Gallon Standard
150 Gallon High
180 Gallon Standard
350 Liter (120cm Deep)
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Frequently Asked Questions About Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus)
How big does Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) get?
Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) (Tropheus duboisi) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 12 cm. They have a compressed body shape and a slow growth rate.
What tank size does Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 280 litres and a tank length of at least 120 cm are recommended for Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus). This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) need?
Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 24–28°C, a pH between 8 and 9, and a general hardness of 10–25 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Is Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) peaceful or aggressive?
Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) is classified as aggressive with an aggression score of 8 out of 10. Careful tankmate selection is essential to avoid conflict.
How many Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) should be kept together?
Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) is a schooling species and should be kept in groups of at least 10. Larger groups help distribute aggression and encourage natural schooling behaviour.
Does Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus) benefits from sand (sifters), established algae (otocinclus), and smooth gravel (sensitive barbels) in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Similar Species
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Neolamprologus brichardi
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Green Terror
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A large, incredibly colorful, and highly aggressive South American cichlid. Known for their striking metallic green/blue scales and vibrant orange or white tail margins. As their name suggests, they are highly territorial and require very careful tankmate selection, usually only coexisting with other large, robust cichlids or armored catfish in very large tanks.
African Jewel Cichlid
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A strikingly beautiful but notoriously aggressive West African riverine cichlid. Unlike the alkaline-loving Rift Lake cichlids (e.g., Mbuna), Jewel Cichlids prefer neutral, softer water parameters. They are renowned for their brilliant red breeding dress and iridescent blue spots, but also for their extreme territoriality, especially when forming pairs and spawning. They are avid diggers and will uproot most plants.
Cuckoo Catfish
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A striking African catfish famous for its 'cuckoo' breeding strategy, where it sneaks its eggs into the clutches of mouthbrooding cichlids. They are highly active, social, and thrive in hard, alkaline water typical of Lake Tanganyika. They must be kept in groups to diffuse conspecific aggression and are best kept with Rift Lake cichlids.
Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara)
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Endemic to Lake Malawi, Peacock Cichlids are highly sought after for the breathtaking colors of the males. They are benthivorous, using sensory pores on their jaws to hunt small invertebrates in the sand. While territorial, they are generally peaceful compared to their aggressive Mbuna cousins. They require hard, alkaline water and a sandy substrate to prevent gill damage while sifting.
Frontosa
Cyphotilapia frontosa
A majestic and iconic deep-water cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, famous for its striking black and white bands and the prominent nuchal hump on its head. Despite their massive size, they are gentle giants compared to other African cichlids. However, they are highly effective piscivores and will easily consume smaller fish. They are best kept in a 'harem' colony of one male to multiple females.