Family: Cichlidae
Iodotropheus sprengerae — a Cichlidae from Africa. Reaches 7.5–11 cm; keep at 24–28 °C.
Iodotropheus sprengerae is a Cichlidae from Africa. In the wild it prefers lakes and slow rivers with structure; in the aquarium it stays varies by species. Plan on 7.5–11 cm of adult fish at 24–28 °C. In a community tank it pairs well with Similar-sized peaceful community fish.
Intermediate difficulty. Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding; pairs or singles with defined territory.
Hold 24–28 °C and keep it stable — 24–28 °C curated husbandry range. Heater required for stable tropical warmth.
Expect 7.5–11 cm as an adult, living middle of the water column. A 145 L tank or larger gives it room.
Omnivore to carnivore; quality prepared foods. It forages naturally over sand with rock piles, so let some food reach the bottom.
Yes, with care. Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding — pair it with Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs and skip Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.
Comes from Africa: lakes and slow rivers with structure. Expect still to gentle current and moderate.
Low escape risk, but a lid is cheap insurance.
In the aquarium: substrate or cave spawner with parental care. Often striking; males larger and brighter.