Description
The Pseudotropheus msobo “Deep Magunga”, a stunning and somewhat rare African cichlid, is native to Lake Malawi. This species is prized for its striking colors, particularly the males, which display a deep blue hue with black stripes, making them a beautiful addition to a cichlid tank. Like other species from the genus Pseudotropheus, the “Deep Magunga” is a hardy fish, but it requires a specific environment to thrive. Here’s everything you need to know about this captivating fish.
Introduction
- Common Name: Pseudotropheus msobo “Deep Magunga”
- Scientific Name: Pseudotropheus msobo
- Size: Males up to 5 inches (12.7 cm), females up to 4 inches (10 cm)
- Lifespan: 6-10 years in a well-maintained aquarium
The “Deep Magunga” is well-known for its vibrant coloration and active nature. Males exhibit a deep blue color with black vertical stripes, while females tend to have a more subdued coloration with a pale yellowish or brownish body. Its territorial behavior can make it a bit more challenging for novice aquarists, but its beauty and personality make it worth the effort for those familiar with cichlid care.
1. Natural Habitat and Behavior
- Habitat: Native to the rocky shores of Lake Malawi, Pseudotropheus msobo is typically found in deeper waters with rocky outcroppings and crevices. It thrives in slightly alkaline, hard water with moderate water flow.
- Behavior: Like many African cichlids, the “Deep Magunga” is a territorial species. Males, in particular, can be quite aggressive, especially when defending their territory or during breeding. They are generally peaceful with females and compatible tankmates, though they may engage in occasional skirmishes with other males or similarly aggressive species.
2. Aquarium Setup
- Tank Size: A minimum of 55 gallons (200 liters) is recommended for a small group of these cichlids. If you plan to keep multiple males, a larger tank (75 gallons or more) is ideal to provide sufficient territory and reduce aggression.
- Substrate: Fine gravel or sand is ideal for mimicking the natural environment of Lake Malawi. Avoid using sharp substrates, as they can cause injury to the fish.
- Decor: The aquarium should feature plenty of rocks and caves to allow the fish to establish territories. These rocks also provide hiding spots and help replicate the rocky shorelines of Lake Malawi. Some plants, either live or artificial, can be included but should be hardy, as the fish may uproot softer plants.
- Water Conditions:
- Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)
- pH: 7.8–8.5 (alkaline)
- Hardness: 10-18 dGH (hard)
- Lighting: Moderate lighting will work well in the tank. If you plan to include plants, a balanced light source is recommended to support their growth.
3. Diet and Feeding
- Diet: Pseudotropheus msobo “Deep Magunga” is an omnivore. They require a diet rich in both plant matter and protein. In the wild, they primarily feed on algae and small invertebrates, but in captivity, they will accept high-quality cichlid pellets, spirulina-based foods, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp and bloodworms.
- Feeding Schedule: Feed once or twice a day. Offer a variety of foods to meet both their protein and vegetable requirements. Overfeeding should be avoided to maintain water quality and prevent obesity.
4. Compatibility with Other Fish
- Tankmates: As an aggressive and territorial species, the “Deep Magunga” should be housed with other cichlids that are similarly robust or have a similar temperament. Suitable tankmates include:
- Other African cichlids from Lake Malawi, such as Labidochromis, Aulonocara, or Pseudotropheus species.
- Larger non-cichlid species like Plecos or Synodontis catfish.
- Aggression: Males can be highly territorial, particularly during breeding. To reduce aggression, house one male with several females or provide plenty of hiding spots and visual barriers to give each fish its own space.
5. Common Challenges and Tips
- Aggression: The primary challenge with Pseudotropheus msobo “Deep Magunga” is its territorial nature. This can lead to aggression, especially among males. If keeping multiple males, ensure the tank is large enough and has sufficient rockwork to create separate territories.
- Water Quality: African cichlids are sensitive to poor water quality. Regular water changes (20-30% weekly) are essential to maintain clean, stable conditions. A strong filtration system will help keep the water clear and maintain optimal conditions.
- Breeding: Like other Pseudotropheus species, the “Deep Magunga” is a mouthbrooder. Females carry the fertilized eggs in their mouths until the fry hatch, which can be a fascinating process to observe. If you’re not interested in breeding, a single male with several females is recommended to prevent the overpopulation of fry.
Conclusion
The Pseudotropheus msobo “Deep Magunga” is a stunning addition to any African cichlid aquarium, prized for its vibrant coloration and active behavior. While it can be challenging due to its territorial nature, it is well-suited for aquarists with experience in cichlid care. By providing a large tank with ample hiding spots and a varied diet, this cichlid will thrive and provide years of enjoyment.
