Intermediate habitat (sand/rock interface) at depths of approximately 7–20 m
Geographic distribution:
Mozambique shoreline of Lake Malawi, from just north of the Chiloelo River to north of Metangula
Typical adult size:
Males up to about 12 cm; females smaller, around 8 cm
Sexual dimorphism:
Breeding males dark blue to black with vertical bars and a white to bluish blaze on the head; females and juveniles sand-yellow to silvery with three distinct black spots
Recommended aquarium size:
Minimum 250 litres
Aquarium setup:
Fine sand substrate with some larger rocks and overhangs; open swimming areas combined with suitable structures for bower construction
Diet:
Zooplankton feeder; feeds primarily on plankton in the open water
Breeding:
Maternal mouthbrooder; males build sand craters, often beneath overhanging rocks; females brood eggs for about 21 days
Aggression:
Moderately territorial, especially males during breeding
Special notes:
Previously known as Copadichromis sp. “Verduyni dwarf”; a small, attractively coloured member of the C. mbenjii group
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