Species profile
Cyprichromis Leptosoma
Cyprichromis leptosoma
Peaceful
Moderate care
240 L minimum aquarium
8–11 cm adult size
Top mid
Minimum group: 10
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
A tall but short aquarium is not a substitute for length. Maintain a proper group and stable Tanganyikan mineral chemistry.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–27 °C
pH
8–9
GH
12–25 dGH
KH
8–18 dKH
Flow preference
Moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 10
Tank zone
Top mid
Territory level
Low–moderate
Predation risk
Fry
Bioload factor
1.3
Open-water shoaling Tanganyikan cichlid. Males display and hold loose three-dimensional territories while females and juveniles school.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
6–8 years
Diet type
Planktivore
Minimum aquarium volume
240 L
Minimum footprint
120 × 45 cm
Accepted scientific name
Cyprichromis leptosoma
Alternative names
Sardine Cichlid, Leptosoma Cichlid
Native range
Lake Tanganyika, especially rocky offshore/littoral slopes.
Natural habitat
Open water adjacent to steep rocky shores; highly oxygenated, hard alkaline water with substantial uninterrupted swimming space.
Diet & feeding
Zooplankton specialist; feed small floating/suspended foods, Artemia, daphnia and fine quality pellets/flakes.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Adult males are more intensely coloured and may show distinct locality colour patterns; females are generally plainer and greyer.
Breeding
Maternal mouthbrooder. Spawning occurs in open water; the female collects eggs and carries the developing brood in her mouth.