⚪ Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus duboisi) – Stunning African Cichlid with Spotted Juvenile Pattern

The Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus duboisi) is one of the most iconic African cichlids from Lake Tanganyika. Juveniles are famous for their black bodies covered in bright white-blue spots, while adults transition to a bold blue head with a yellow or white body band. This dramatic color transformation makes Duboisi one of the most visually fascinating cichlids to keep.

Active, social, and best kept in groups, Duboisi thrive in rock-heavy setups with strong water flow and high oxygenation—perfect for Tanganyikan aquarists who love personality and movement in their tanks.

🌟 Key Features

⚪ Juvenile Spotted Pattern – Black body with bright blue/white spots
💙 Adult Blue Face – Stunning deep blue head coloration
💛 Signature Mid-Body Band – White/yellow horizontal band as they mature
🐠 Active & Social – Best kept in groups of 8+
🪨 Rock-Dwelling Tanganyikan Cichlid – Loves caves and complex hardscape

⚙️ Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Tropheus duboisi
• Common Names: Duboisi Cichlid, White-Spotted Tropheus
• Origin: Lake Tanganyika, Africa
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; colony fish
• Adult Size: 4–5 inches
• Diet: Herbivore – spirulina flakes, algae wafers, veggie-based pellets
• Tank Size: 55 gallons minimum (75+ for colonies)
• Temperature: 76–82°F
• pH Range: 8.0–9.0 (hard, alkaline water)
• Water Hardness: High

💡 Tank Setup Tips

• Provide lots of rockwork, caves, and line-of-sight breaks
• Ideal tank: rocky Tanganyikan-style aquascape
• Maintain strong filtration and high oxygen levels
• Keep in groups of 8 or more to distribute aggression
• Avoid mixing with non–Tropheus species or slow eaters
• Perfect tankmates: other Tropheus colonies, goby cichlids, shell dwellers (in larger tanks)

❓ FAQ

Q: Do Duboisi Cichlids change color?
A: Yes—juveniles are spotted while adults develop a blue face and a mid-body band.

Q: Are they good for beginners?
A: Better for intermediate hobbyists due to diet and water requirements.

Q: Can I mix Duboisi with Mbuna or Peacocks?
A: No—Tropheus and Malawi cichlids should not be mixed.

Q: What diet do they require?
A: A strict herbivore diet—avoid high-protein foods to prevent bloat.