Open water; also encountered in intermediate and sandy habitats above sandy bottom at depths of 20–30 m
Geographic distribution:
Lake Malawi
Typical adult size:
Males up to 20 cm; females up to about 16 cm
Sexual dimorphism:
Males grow larger than females; females remain smaller and less robust
Recommended aquarium size:
Minimum 600 litres; aquarium length at least 180 cm
Aquarium setup:
Large sandy areas in the foreground interrupted by several large rocks; sufficient open sandy zones between rocks
Diet:
Primarily phytoplankton feeder; unlike most Copadichromis species feeds almost exclusively on phytoplankton, with only rare intake of invertebrates or other microorganisms
Breeding:
Maternal mouthbrooder; one male should be kept with 2–3 females; group keeping possible if each male has access to 2–3 females
Aggression:
Slightly aggressive within the species; otherwise a peaceful cichlid
Special notes:
One of the few Copadichromis species specialised in phytoplankton feeding, together with Copadichromis trimaculatus
Photo gallery