Rusty Cichlid

The rusty cichlid, Iodotropheus sprengerae, is a freshwater fish of the cichlid family. It is also known as lavender mbuna or lavender cichlid. This mbuna species is endemic to Boadzulu and Chinyankwazi Islands regions of Lake Malawi. It prefers a temperature range of 24-26°C.Rusty cichlids are elongate fish that can grow up to about 11 cm. Juveniles and females are rusty brown color, while mature males have lavender purple hue. Rusty cichlids are mouthbrooders. Females hold their fertilized eggs and fry, in their mouth for a few weeks before releasing the fry.
See more at Wikipedia.org...

Common Name
Rusty Cichlid
Other Common Names
--
Scientific Name
Iodotropheus sprengerae
Family
Cichlidae
Community
African
Class
African
Temperature
78ºF
Swimming Range
Top-Middle-Bottom
Adult Length
3-4 inches
Feeding Habits
Fresh spinach, peas, lettuce and zucchini. Live fish, blood worms, glass worms, brine shrimp and tubifex worms. Frozen plankton, beef heart, blood worms, brine shrimp, daphnia and glass worms. Freeze dried and tablets foods also accepted.
Compatibility
A peaceful and schooling species that will mix well with other Africans and certain species of catfish such as Synodontis Catfish.
Habitat
Lake Malawi Africa: Lots of rocks, driftwood and clay pots for creating territories. Live plants are a nice addition but may be eaten. The best choices for live plants are Java Fern and Java Moss.
Breeding
Difference between male and female unknown.
Additional Comments
Vegetation in their diet is very important to promote proper coloration and growth. African Cichlids are very popular with the hobbyists because of their bright colors and interesting breeding habits.