Small-scaled cichlid

Cyprichromis microlepidotus

Family : Cichlidae

FishFreshwatercichlid

The Small-scaled cichlid is a pelagic cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, recognizable by its very fine scales and slender body.

Small-scaled cichlid — photo 1 sur 1
Rufus46 · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.01 / 1
Popularity
Biotope specialist
requires biotope recreation
Availability
Specialty only
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern
Biotope
Lake Tanganyika
Lac africain, eau dure, cichlidés Tropheus, Cyprichromis.

Description

This fish has a very elongated and compressed body, with tiny scales giving it a smooth appearance. Males are metallic blue with yellow reflections, females are silvery. It lives in schools in open water and feeds on zooplankton. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. Less common in the hobby than other Cyprichromis. Its dorsal fin is long and low.

Habitat

Region :

Open water and rocky areas

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2427 °C
pH7.88.6
GH812 °dGH
KH1015 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 20 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 0.5 mg/L

Care

Difficulty
3/5
Diet
Carnivore
Min. tank
200 L
Min. group
6
Adult size
10 cm
Lifespan
5 years
Temperament
Peaceful, schooling
Propagation

Care notes

Keep a group of at least 6 in a minimum 200L tank. Hard and alkaline water (pH 7.8-8.6, GH 8-12). Temperature 24-27°C. Feed with fine foods (brine shrimp, plankton). Avoid aggressive fish. Moderate flow is appreciated. Regular water changes. Nitrates max 20 mg/L. Compatible with other peaceful Tanganyikan cichlids.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References