Sardine Cichlid
Cyprichromis leptosoma
Water Parameters
About
Unique pelagic cichlid that lives in schools in the open water of Lake Tanganyika. Various color variants. Unique reproductive behavior among cichlids.
Behavior & Temperament
Open‑water cichlid with strong schooling behavior. Peaceful and social. Males display vibrant colors during breeding. Keep in schools of 10+ individuals.
Feeding
Planktivore. Feed with fine flakes, small pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia and cyclops. In the wild, feeds on zooplankton in open water.
Breeding
Unique maternal mouthbrooder: the female releases eggs upward and scoops them into her mouth after the male fertilizes them in open water. 5–15 eggs per brood.
Care Notes
Tall aquarium with a large free water column. School of 10+. Efficient filtration without excessive current. Many color variants depending on locality.
Compatibility
Excellent companion for bottom-dwelling Tanganyika cichlids like Xenotilapia and shell dwellers. Occupies upper/mid water column. Avoid large predators.
Quick Summary
| Scientific Name | Cyprichromis leptosoma |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Category | Fish |
| Care Level | Intermediate |
| Water Type | Freshwater |
| Max Size | 11.0 cm (4.3") |
| Min Tank | 300 L (79 gal) |
| Min Group | 10+ |
| Diet | Planktivore. Feed with fine flakes, small pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia and cyclops. In the wild, feeds on zooplankton in open water. |
| Temperament | Open‑water cichlid with strong schooling behavior. Peaceful and social. Males display vibrant colors during breeding. Keep in schools of 10+ individuals. |
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