Copadichromis Melas
📖 Overview
Inhabits the sand/rock interface along the lake shore; territorial males build their bowers at depths of 10-15m; females commonly occur solitarily or in small groups of 3-4 individuals; both males and females feed on plankton near the bottom and on benthic invertebrates .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 15 - 17; Dorsal soft rays (total): 10 - 12; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 8 - 9. Diagnosis: 3 lateral spots on body; supra-pectoral spot about same size as supra-anal spot; 3 vertical bars between supra-pectoral spot and opercle; no black submarginal band in dorsal fin; breeding males entirely black with black anal fin without colored margin, spots, or streaks : fusiform / normal.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Copadichromis Melas is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Freshwater; demersal. Tropical occurs between Tumbi Point and Cobwé, Lake Malawi, Mozambique (Ref.
🌿 Ecology
plankton near the bottom and on benthic invertebrates (Ref
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🦠 Common Diseases
The following diseases are known to affect Copadichromis Melas.
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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