Species profile
Tropheus Duboisi
Tropheus duboisi
Aggressive
Hard care
300 L minimum aquarium
10–14 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Minimum group: 12
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Do not recommend as a casual mixed-community cichlid. Group management, diet consistency and stable alkaline water are central to long-term success.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
23–28 °C
pH
7.8–9
GH
10–22 dGH
KH
8–18 dKH
Flow preference
Moderate–high
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 12
Tank zone
Bottom–mid
Territory level
High
Predation risk
Fry
Bioload factor
2
Highly social but combative rock-grazing cichlid. Keep a substantial established group with extensive rockwork to diffuse aggression.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Caution
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
Yes
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
8–12 years
Diet type
Herbivore
Minimum aquarium volume
300 L
Minimum footprint
150 × 50 cm
Accepted scientific name
Tropheus duboisi
Alternative names
Duboisi Cichlid, White Spotted Tropheus
Native range
Lake Tanganyika, with geographically distinct populations/locality forms.
Natural habitat
Shallow rocky littoral zones with aufwuchs-covered stones, very hard alkaline water and strong oxygenation.
Diet & feeding
Aufwuchs-focused diet. Base feeding on high-fibre vegetable/spirulina foods; avoid repeated heavy feeds of rich animal protein.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Sexual dimorphism is subtle; adult males may be larger and more territorial, but venting or breeding behaviour is more reliable.
Breeding
Maternal mouthbrooder. The female collects eggs after spawning and carries eggs/fry until they are well developed.