Kasai Smallscale Cyprichromis – Cyprichromis Microlepidotus «Kasai» – Cichlid

The Kasai Smallscale Cyprichromis, scientifically known as Cyprichromis Microlepidotus «Kasai», is a stunning and vibrant cichlid species that originates from Lake Tanganyika. This small-scale cichlid is highly sought after by aquarium enthusiasts due to its beautiful coloration and unique behavioral traits. With proper care and maintenance, this fish can thrive in a well-maintained aquarium and provide a visually captivating display.

Scientific and Common Names:
– Scientific Name: Cyprichromis Microlepidotus «Kasai»
– Common Name: Kasai Smallscale Cyprichromis

Habitat:
– Origin: Lake Tanganyika, Africa
– Natural Habitat: This species is found in the rocky coastal areas of Lake Tanganyika, where it inhabits the intermediate water depths.

Tank Setup:
– Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended for a small group of Kasai Smallscale Cyprichromis.
– Water Parameters: The ideal water temperature for this species is between 75-80°F (24-27°C), with a pH range of 7.8-9.0 and hardness of 10-20 dGH.
– Substrate: Provide a sandy substrate to mimic their natural habitat.
– Decorations: Use rocks and caves to create hiding spots and territories for the fish.
– Lighting: Moderate lighting is sufficient for this species.

Diet and Nutrition:
– Feeding Habits: Kasai Smallscale Cyprichromis are primarily herbivorous, feeding on algae and small invertebrates in the wild.
– Diet: Offer a varied diet consisting of high-quality flake or pellet food supplemented with vegetable matter such as spirulina flakes or blanched vegetables.
– Feeding Frequency: Feed small amounts multiple times a day to mimic their natural feeding behavior.

Size and Growth Rate:
– Size: The Kasai Smallscale Cyprichromis can reach a maximum size of around 4 inches (10 cm) in length.
– Growth Rate: The growth rate of this species is moderate, and they reach their adult size within a year or two.

Behavioral Traits:
– Schooling Behavior: Kasai Smallscale Cyprichromis are social fish that form schools in the wild. They should be kept in groups of at least six individuals in the aquarium.
– Active Swimmers: These cichlids are active swimmers and appreciate a spacious aquarium with plenty of open swimming space.
– Territorial Nature: Males can be territorial, especially during breeding, and may establish and defend their own territories within the tank.

Care Level:
– Care Level: The Kasai Smallscale Cyprichromis is considered to have a moderate care level. They require a well-maintained aquarium with stable water parameters and regular maintenance.

Breeding and Reproduction:
– Breeding Behavior: This species is a mouthbrooder, with the females carrying and protecting the eggs and fry in their mouths.
– Breeding Setup: Provide plenty of hiding spots and caves for the females to lay their eggs and for the fry to seek shelter.
– Spawning Process: Males will display their vibrant colors and court the females. Once the female is ready to spawn, she will lay her eggs in a chosen cave. The male will then fertilize the eggs, and the female will pick them up in her mouth.
– Incubation Period: The incubation period for the eggs is around 3-4 weeks, after which the female will release the fry.

Health and Disease Prevention:
– Disease Prevention: Maintain good water quality, provide a balanced diet, and avoid overcrowding to prevent diseases.
– Common Diseases: Kasai Smallscale Cyprichromis are generally hardy fish, but they can be susceptible to common aquarium diseases such as ich or fin rot.
– Quarantine: It is recommended to quarantine new fish before introducing them to an established aquarium to prevent the spread of diseases.

Optimal Water Conditions:
– Temperature: 75-80°F (24-27°C)
– pH: 7.8-9.0
– Hardness: 10-20 dGH

Lifespan:
– The average lifespan of the Kasai Smallscale Cyprichromis is around 5-8 years, but with proper care, they can live longer.

Additional Interesting Facts:
– Coloration: The Kasai Smallscale Cyprichromis displays vibrant colors, with males exhibiting a blue body and yellow fins, while females have a silver-gray coloration.
– Unique Behavior: This species is known for its unique “shimmering” behavior, where they rapidly change their body coloration to communicate and display dominance.
– Compatibility: Kasai Smallscale Cyprichromis can be kept with other peaceful Tanganyikan cichlids, but avoid aggressive or larger species that may intimidate or harm them.
– Biotope Aquarium: Setting up a biotope aquarium that mimics the natural habitat of Lake Tanganyika can enhance the overall experience of keeping this species.