The Lavender mbuna (Iodotropheus sprengerae) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
The lavender mbuna is a small cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 11 cm and has a stocky body with a variable, rusty-brown to lavender-purple colour. As a rock-dwelling mbuna it grazes the algal mat (aufwuchs) from rocks with its mouth and picks small invertebrates from it. It is a mouthbrooder: the female carries the eggs and young in her mouth. The fish is popular in the aquarium hobby. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lavender mbuna?
The Lavender mbuna has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly pink-purple and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Lavender mbuna live?
The Lavender mbuna lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Lavender mbuna get?
The Lavender mbuna grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Lavender mbuna dangerous to humans?
No, the Lavender mbuna is harmless to humans.
Is the Lavender mbuna edible?
The Lavender mbuna is not usually eaten.
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
More from the family Cichlidae
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