Rusty Cichlid (Iodotropheus sprengerae)
Iodotropheus sprengerae
Origin: Lake Malawi (Boadzulu Island, Chinyankwazi Island)
Water Parameters
Quick Stats
- Min Tank
- 120 L
- Lifespan
- 7-10
- Swimming Level
- middle
- Schooling
- No
- Diet
- omnivore
- Temperament
- Least aggressive mbuna; suitable for mixed Rift Lake community tanks with adequate territory and hiding spots.
About
The Rusty Cichlid (Iodotropheus sprengerae) is named for the warm orange-brown wash covering the upper body of both sexes, offset by subtle lavender-blue iridescence on the flanks. Endemic to the rocky shores of Boadzulu and Chinyankwazi Islands in Lake Malawi, it is among the smallest and least aggressive of all mbuna — an ideal introductory Rift Lake cichlid for community tanks housing mixed mbuna and haplochromine cichlids.
Care Guide
Provide a rocky aquarium with many caves and territories. Maintain hard, alkaline water (pH 7.5–8.6, GH 8–20) mimicking Lake Malawi. Feed mbuna-appropriate spirulina-based foods; avoid high-protein diets that can cause bloat. Despite being the mildest mbuna, still keep in groups with multiple females per male and provide line-of-sight breaks. Excellent community mbuna for beginners.
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