Moderate
Cyprichromis leptosoma gold
24–27°C · pH 7.8–9 · 200L
£58.99
A peaceful, schooling open-water cichlid from the Mpulungu region of Lake Tanganyika. Males display stunning blue and yellow colouration during courtship. This pelagic species occupies the upper water column, making it an ideal complement to rock-dwelling Tanganyika species. Keep in groups of 10+ for natural behaviour.
Adult size is the maximum length this species reaches at full maturity (scientific sources). The livestock you receive will be younger and smaller — pick a size variant above for the actual shipping size. Photos are AI-enhanced, so the animal may show subtle colour or marking differences.
Cyprichromis leptosoma mpulungu
Cyprichromis leptosoma mpulungu are a shoaling species — they need 6+ to feel safe and show their full colour.
A peaceful, schooling open-water cichlid from the Mpulungu region of Lake Tanganyika. Males display stunning blue and yellow colouration during courtship. This pelagic species occupies the upper water column, making it an ideal complement to rock-dwelling Tanganyika species. Keep in groups of 10+ for natural behaviour.
Adult size is the maximum length this species reaches at full maturity (scientific sources). The livestock you receive will be younger and smaller — pick a size variant above for the actual shipping size. Photos are AI-enhanced, so the animal may show subtle colour or marking differences.
Cichlids are one of the most diverse fish families in the hobby. From tiny apistogrammas to massive oscars, this guide covers the basics of keeping them well.
Maintain these water conditions for optimal health and vibrant colors
The Mpulungu Sardine Cichlid (Cyprichromis leptosoma «Mpulungu») is a peaceful, schooling open-water cichlid from the Mpulungu region of Lake Tanganyika. Males display stunning blue and yellow colouration during courtship, while females are more silvery. This pelagic species occupies the upper water column, making it a perfect complement to bottom-dwelling Tanganyika species. Adults reach 12 cm and can live up to 8 years.
| Scientific Name | Cyprichromis leptosoma |
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | Lake Tanganyika, East Africa (Mpulungu) |
| Care Level | Moderate |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Adult Size | 12 cm |
| Minimum Tank Size | 200 litres |
| Temperature | 24–27°C |
| pH Range | 7.8–9.0 |
| Water Hardness | 10–25 dGH |
| Diet | Omnivore; plankton, crushed flakes, baby brine shrimp, cyclops |
| Lifespan | 8 years |
| Tank Region | Top |
| Group Size | Group of 10+ |
Cyprichromis leptosoma is endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The Mpulungu variant comes from the southern tip of the lake near Zambia. In the wild, this species forms large schools in open water above rocky substrates, feeding on plankton. It is one of the few pelagic (open-water) cichlids in Lake Tanganyika.
Provide a minimum of 200 litres for a group of 10 or more. Maintain water temperature between 24–27°C with a pH of 7.8–9.0 and hard water of 10–25 dGH. The tank should have plenty of open swimming space at the top, with rock formations below for bottom-dwelling tank mates.
This species is an omnivore that feeds on plankton in the wild. Offer crushed flakes, baby brine shrimp, cyclops, and fine-grade cichlid pellets. Feed small amounts several times daily to mimic their natural grazing behaviour.
Good companions include other Tanganyika cichlids, Synodontis petricola, and shell-dwellers. Avoid housing with aggressive Mbuna and large predatory fish. You might also consider the Kitumba Jumbo Sardine Cichlid or the Xenotilapia Ochrogenys Kigoma from our collection.
At Tropical Fish Co, every fish is carefully selected and shipped with care across the UK. We offer live arrival guarantee, expert advice, and competitive prices. Order your Mpulungu Sardine Cichlid today and enjoy tracked UK delivery to your door.
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