Azureus Cichlid (Copadichromis azureus)

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Azureus Cichlid

C.azureus 01.jpg
Azureus Cichlid

Copadichromis azureus

284 Litres (75 US G.)

12.7-15.2cm (5-6 ")

sg

Freshwater

pH

7.8 - 8.2

25 -28 °C (77-82.4°F)

8-12 °d

1:2 M:F

Omnivore
Pellet Foods
Flake Foods
Live Foods
Other (See article)

5-6 years

Family

Cichlidae



Additional names

Azureus Cichlid, Nkhomo Reef Cichlid

Additional scientific names

Haplochromis chrysonotus


Origin[edit]

Endemic to Lake Malawi.


Sexing[edit]

Mature males are vivid blue, females are a more grey colour with 3 black spots. Mature males are larger than females. Juvenile fish are all coloured as the mature female and males will develop the blue colours as they grow from about 8 months old.


Tank compatibility[edit]

A reasonably peaceful African Cichlid, can be kept with other Malawi Cichlids of similar size and temperament.


Diet[edit]

This fish eats plankton in the wild, and is not a fussy eater in captivity. Will take cichlid pellets, krill or brine shrimp.


Feeding regime[edit]

Feed once or twice a day.


Environment specifics[edit]

Prefers rock decor, no planting, a sandy substrate and a strong current.


Behaviour[edit]

Not as aggressive as some African Cichlids, likes rock work to hide in and needs open space to swim in. A sandy substrate is required if these fish are to breed as they dig nests.


Identification[edit]

The males are a bright blue when mature, they are at their most colourful aged 10-12 months. They are blue with visible vertical bands, when younger they have three spots on their flanks. When mature the dorsal fin is edged with white.

Pictures[edit]

External links[edit]