The Pseudotropheus Demasoni (Chindongo) is a small, social fish belonging to the Mbuna family that generally lives near the bottom or among rocky slopes and scree, primarily in the upper part of its habitat (within the first 4 metres of depth). It is endemic to Lake Malawi, at Pombo Rock and particularly around Ndumbi Reef (Tanzanian coast), approximately 15 km south of the Ruhuhu River.
Their Behaviour
Members of a group establish a certain hierarchy, and this species has a lively and aggressive temperament, tolerating virtually no intrusion into its territory. However, it also tends to become stressed easily. The males are polygamous and live within a harem. This fish is particularly aggressive toward other territorial species and will readily engage in intense fights if its opponent stands its ground. It can be somewhat more tolerant of non-territorial fish, but considerably less tolerant of members of its own species. It is therefore best to avoid keeping it in an aquarium with members of the Haplochromis or Aulonocara groups, as they are generally less reactive compared with the Demasoni.
During breeding periods, it generally becomes even more aggressive as it attempts to protect its young. Females (which are mouthbrooders) mature at a relatively small size (often observed at around 45 mm) and, as adults, produce an average of approximately fifteen fry per brood (about 5 mm long, but already very active).
As recently as May 2018, this fish was still classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Fishing in Lake Malawi had also, until quite recently, been prohibited in order to preserve stocks and allow the population of this previously "threatened" species to recover.
Displaying the same coloration, males and females (although females may be slightly paler) rarely differ in appearance. The same is true of juveniles, even at a very young age, often as soon as they reach a length of 15 mm. They are beautiful little fish and make an attractive addition to a Mbuna aquarium.
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