Rusty Cichlid 4cm

Rusty Cichlid

For aquarists looking for a peaceful yet striking African cichlid, the Rusty Cichlid is an underrated gem. Unlike many other aggressive Mbuna, Rusty Cichlids are known for their calmer temperament, making them a great choice for those wanting to set up a more harmonious Malawi cichlid tank. They are hardy, active, and easy to care for, making them a perfect entry point for newcomers to African cichlids.

Rusty Cichlids have a beautiful rusty-orange to purple-bronze hue, giving them a distinctive and unique look compared to the more vibrant blues and yellows commonly seen in Lake Malawi cichlids. Their subtle colour shifts under different lighting, revealing hints of blue and violet iridescence along the body and fins. This dynamic mix of colour really does make these fish look like a rusted ingot of metal. Males tend to develop a deeper, richer colour, while females remain slightly paler. Growing to around 10 cm, these fish love to sift through sand and explore rocky crevices, making them a great addition to a well-aquascaped cichlid tank.

Breeding Rusty Cichlids is relatively easy, as they are maternal mouthbrooders. After spawning, the female will carry the fertilised eggs in her mouth for about three weeks, during which she will eat very little. Once the fry are released, they are fully formed and independent, making it easier to raise them in a well-maintained tank. To encourage breeding, provide plenty of hiding spots and caves, and ensure a balanced diet rich in proteins and vegetable matter.

Tank Recommendations for your Rusty Cichlid
Rusty Cichlids require a minimum tank size of 150 litres, as they are active swimmers and enjoy having ample rock structures and caves to explore. A sandy substrate is recommended, as they love to sift through the sand. Since they come from Lake Malawi, they prefer hard, alkaline water with a pH of 7.5-8.5 and a temperature range of 24-28°C. To best replicate their natural environment, an aquascape with plenty of rock formations, caves, and open swimming space is ideal

Suitable Tank Buddies

Rusty Cichlids are one of the most peaceful Mbuna, making them one of the best community-friendly African cichlids. However, they still need tank mates that can hold their own in a Malawi setup.

Usually Compatible

Other peaceful to semi-aggressive Mbuna, such as Yellow Labs, Acei Cichlids, and some smaller Peacocks.

Sometime Compatible

More boisterous Mbuna species like Red Zebras and other Pseudotropheus species. Larger Peacocks and Haps may be too dominant, so care should be taken when selecting tank mates.

Rarely Compatible

Highly aggressive Mbuna like Demasoni or Auratus Cichlids. Also, South American cichlids or community fish should be avoided, as their water parameters and temperaments are incompatible.

Feeding your Rusty Cichlid

Rusty Cichlids are omnivorous but thrive on a diet rich in plant-based foods. To keep them healthy, a high-quality cichlid pellet or flake with vegetable content is recommended. They will also readily accept spirulina-based foods, algae wafers, and blanched vegetables like zucchini and spinach. While they can eat protein-based foods like brine shrimp or bloodworms, excessive protein can lead to bloating, so it's best to keep these as an occasional treat rather than a staple.