Rusty Cichlid

Iodotropheus sprengerae

A mellow, rusty-lavender mbuna that is among the calmest of its group.

Water

Freshwater

Temperature

76–82°F

pH

7.8–8.6

Hardness

10–25 dGH

Max size

4 in

Min tank

40 gal

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

Social

Social

Swim level

All

Diet

Omnivore

Care level

Beginner

Lifespan

6-8 years

Breeding

Mouthbrooder

Suitability

Intermediate

Origin

Lake Malawi (Africa)

One of the easier and more peaceful mbuna, with a warm rust-to-purple sheen. A good starter African cichlid kept in a group with hard alkaline water and rocks. Less demanding than most mbuna.