Tropheus duboisi 'Bemba'

Tropheus duboisi 'Bemba' is one of the most immediately recognisable cichlids in the hobby: juveniles are clothed in dozens of vivid white spots on a jet-black body, a pattern that slowly fades and is replaced by the plain dark adult colouration between 6 and 12 months of age. The Bemba population is distinguished from other duboisi forms by a subtle but consistent blue iridescence in adults.

This species originates from the northern shores of Lake Tanganyika near the Bemba and Halembe localities. It shares the same strict herbivore requirements as Tropheus moorii and is equally susceptible to bloat if given inappropriate food.

The transition from juvenile spotted to adult plain colouration is frequently a surprise to new keepers but does not indicate illness. Adult males develop a slightly stockier build and more pronounced colouration than females, and colony breeding behaviour mirrors that of T. moorii.

Water: 24–27°C, pH 7.8–9.0, GH 10–20, KH 8–18; northern Tanganyika water is extremely hard and alkaline. Tank: 250–300 L minimum; dense rockwork; juveniles can be raised in smaller 150 L setups initially. Feeding: Spirulina flake from day one; young fish accept finely ground spirulina powder; zero protein foods at any age. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; 5–12 fry; spotted fry are particularly striking and easy to sell on. Compatibility: Species-only or with robust Tanganyika species; never mix with T. moorii morphs.