African Cichlid – Red Tail Sardine Cichlid “utinta” – 5cm

Red Tail Sardine Cichlid: A Graceful Lake Tanganyika Swimmer

The Red Tail Sardine Cichlid (Cyprichromis leptosoma “Utinta”) is a captivating freshwater fish native to the clear waters of Lake Tanganyika. Known for its shimmering body and vibrant red tail, this schooling cichlid adds elegance and activity to aquariums. Its peaceful temperament and unique swimming patterns make it ideal for aquarists looking for a dynamic yet harmonious addition to their tank.

Size and Lifespan

Red Tail Sardine Cichlids grow up to 10–12 cm in length, with males displaying more vibrant colours than females. When provided with optimal care, they can live for 5–8 years, offering both beauty and lively activity to your aquarium.

Tank Size and Requirements

A tank of at least 200 liters is necessary for these active schooling fish. Maintain water temperatures between 24°C–28°C and a pH range of 8.0–9.0 to replicate their Lake Tanganyika environment. These cichlids prefer a setup with open swimming spaces, sandy substrates, and a few rocky structures to provide hiding spots. They thrive in groups of at least six to promote natural schooling behaviours.

Tank Mates

The Red Tail Sardine Cichlid is peaceful and pairs well with other non-aggressive Lake Tanganyika species. Suitable tank mates include shell dwellers, Julidochromis, and Altolamprologus. Avoid aggressive or overly territorial cichlids that may disrupt the harmony of the tank. Their schooling nature adds a unique dynamic to community setups.

Feeding Red Tail Sardine Cichlids

These cichlids are primarily planktivores, feeding on small particles in the wild. Offer a diet of high-quality cichlid flakes or small pellets formulated for Lake Tanganyika fish. Supplement with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or daphnia to enhance their health and colours. A varied diet ensures they remain active, healthy, and vibrant.

Breeding Red Tail Sardine Cichlids

Breeding is straightforward in a well-maintained tank. Males display bright colours to court females and establish spawning sites in midwater. Females are maternal mouthbrooders, carrying fertilized eggs for 21–28 days before releasing free-swimming fry. Raising fry in a separate tank improves their survival rate. Feed the fry with finely crushed flakes or baby brine shrimp for healthy growth.

FAQs

How big do Red Tail Sardine Cichlids get?
They grow to 10–12 cm, with males being more vibrant than females.

Are they aggressive?
No, they are peaceful and do well in community setups with other mild Lake Tanganyika species.

What tank mates are suitable?
Shell dwellers, Julidochromis, and Altolamprologus are excellent companions.

What do they eat?
They thrive on high-quality flakes, small pellets, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and daphnia.

How do you breed them?
Males court females in midwater, and females mouthbrood eggs for 21–28 days before releasing fry.

Species Overview

• Species: Cyprichromis leptosoma “Utinta”
• Common Name: Red Tail Sardine Cichlid
• Origin: Lake Tanganyika, Africa
• Diet: Planktivore
• PH Range: 8.0–9.0
• Temperature: 24°C–28°C
• Max Size: Up to 12 cm
• Tank Size: Minimum 200 liters