It occurs to a depth of 30 m. Three subpopulations are distinguished in different parts of the lake: "Maswa", "Karilani Island", and "Kigoma".

[1][2] T. duboisi cichlids feed on the algae growing on the rocky substrate they frequent.

[1][2] The species is classified as vulnerable due to their small estimated population size (a few thousand) and restricted distribution.

It is heavily in demand in the aquarium trade, and likely impacted to some degree by increases in sedimentation in its natural habitat.

[1] The specific name honours the collector of the type, the limnologist Jean Dubois, who was Marlier's colleague.