Iodotropheus sprengerae

Taxobox
name = Rusty cichlid
status = VU | status_system = IUCN3.1

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image_width = 240px
image_caption =
regnum = Animalia
phylum = Chordata
classis = Actinopterygii
ordo = Perciformes
familia = Cichlidae
genus = Iodotropheus
species = "I. sprengerae"
binomial = "Iodotropheus sprengerae"
binomial_authority = (Oliver & Loiselle, 1972)

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.

Aquarium Care

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.

ee also

*Mbuna
*List of freshwater aquarium fish species

References

*FishBase_species_alt|ID=8349|taxon=Iodotropheus sprengerae|year=2006|month=December