Cyprichromis (Blue Flash and Jumbo Cyps) (Cyprichromis species) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 75 gallons and 76-82°F. A slim, active Tanganyikan cichlid that swims in schools in open water instead of hiding in caves. It needs a long tank, hard alkaline water and a good-sized group, and it should only be kept with other calm fish.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Cyprichromis species |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | Lake Tanganyika, Africa |
| Adult size | 3.5-5 in |
| Minimum tank | 75 gallons |
| Temperature | 76-82°F |
| pH | 8.0-9.0 |
| Temperament | Peaceful, open-water schooling cichlid |
| Social behavior | Schooling, keep 10+ |
| Swim level | Upper |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Omnivore: small cichlid pellets, flakes, frozen foods, mysis |
| Typical lifespan | 6-8 years |
Quick tips
- Keep ten or more so the school looks natural.
- Use a long tank with open swimming space and rock at the sides.
- Keep with peaceful tankmates; rowdy cichlids stress it.
San Diego water
Naturally suited to San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water once it is dechlorinated (the city uses chloramine, so use a conditioner that handles it). Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi