About the Sardine Cichlid
Name: Cyprichromis Leptosoma
Max Size: Cyprichromis Leptosoma, commonly known as Sardine Cichlid, can reach a maximum size of approximately 4-5 inches in length.
Water Parameters: Cyprichromis Leptosoma prefers freshwater conditions with a pH range of 7.8-9.0 and a temperature of 77-82Β°F. It is important to provide stable water parameters, including regular water changes, to promote their health and vitality.
Diet: Cyprichromis Leptosoma is primarily a herbivorous fish, feeding on algae and plant matter in the wild. In the aquarium, they can be fed a variety of high-quality dry and frozen foods suitable for herbivorous cichlids. Supplement their diet with spirulina-based flakes, pellets, and occasional live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp or daphnia.
Temperament: Cyprichromis Leptosoma is generally a peaceful species, known for its calm and non-aggressive nature. They can be kept in groups and do best when kept with their own kind or with other peaceful species.
Schooling or Non-Schooling Fish: Cyprichromis Leptosoma is a schooling fish, known for its social behavior. They are best kept in groups of six or more individuals to ensure their well-being and to witness their natural schooling behavior.
Possible Tank Mates: Cyprichromis Leptosoma can be kept with other peaceful cichlids or other small to medium-sized fish that can tolerate their social nature. Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping species, as they may become stressed or injured.
Behavior: Cyprichromis Leptosoma is known for its elegant and graceful swimming style. They are active swimmers that occupy the upper levels of the aquarium, often displaying shimmering colors and intricate patterns. They have a unique courtship behavior where males display vibrant colors and perform acrobatic displays to attract females.
Fun Fact: Cyprichromis Leptosoma is native to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa, known for its incredibly diverse cichlid species. They are famous for their elongated body shape, resembling a sardine, hence the common name "Sardine Cichlid." With their stunning colors, social behavior, and active nature, Cyprichromis Leptosoma is a fascinating addition to a Tanganyikan cichlid community aquarium.