Description
Lodotropheus sprengerae, the rusty cichlid, lavender mbuna or lavender cichlid, is a species of cichlid endemic to the Boadzulu and Chinyankwazi Islands and Chinyamwezi Island regions of Lake Malawi. It prefers a temperature range of 75-78 °F. Rusty cichlids are elongate fish that can grow up to 4.3 in. Juveniles and females are rusty brown color, while mature males have lavender purple hue. These cichlids are mouthbrooders. Females hold their fertilized eggs and fry, in their mouth for a few weeks before releasing the fry.
Although not entirely a peaceful fish, the rusty cichlid is considered one of the least aggressive among the mbuna cichlids. This quality makes rusty cichlids an ideal starter fish for aquarists with less experience keeping the mbuna. Hiding places and space should be provided or this fish will be bullied by their more aggressive tank mates. Rusty cichlids are omnivorous and will eat various kinds of food, but meaty food can often cause them serious digestive problems.
Diet:Omnivore
Temp:75-78°F
PH:7.5-8.8
Hardness:Hard water
Fish size:4-5″
Min tank size: 40 Gallons
