Pseudotropheus demasoni | |
---|---|
Scientific classification | |
Domain: | Eukaryota |
Kingdom: | Animalia |
Phylum: | Chordata |
Class: | Actinopterygii |
Order: | Cichliformes |
Family: | Cichlidae |
Genus: | Pseudotropheus |
Species: | P. demasoni
|
Binomial name | |
Pseudotropheus demasoni
Konings, 1994
|
Pseudotropheus demasoni is a species of cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi where it is only known from the Pombo Rocks in Tanzanian waters. This species can potentially reach a maximum length of 10 centimetres (3.9 in) SL. It is now commonly found in the aquarium trade. [2]
Named in honor of Laif DeMason (Homestead, Florida, USA), importer, exporter, and breeder of cichlids. [3]
The color of both sexes is dark blue with black vertical stripes with alternating lighter stripes of light blue to white. Male Demasoni cichlids have egg-spots on the anal fin, while females may lack egg-spots. Males also grows to a larger maximum size than females. Stress coloration is similar to normal coloration but much paler. This species belongs to the so-called Mbuna group of haplochromine cichlids, and like most Mbuna it is highly territorial, with parental care for the offspring (maternal mouthbrooding).