Azureus - Copadichromis azureus
Scientific name: Copadichromis azureus
Common name: Azureus
Family: Cichlidae
Usual size in fish tanks: 15 - 18 cm (5.91 - 7.09 inch)
014
Recommended pH range for the species: 7 - 8
Recommended water hardness (dGH): 5 - 15°N (89.29 - 267.86ppm)
0°C 32°F30°C 86°F
Recommended temperature: 25 - 28 °C (77 - 82.4°F)
The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning
Where the species comes from: Africa
Temperament to its own species: peaceful
Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive to smaller
Usual place in the tank: Middle levels
Food and feeding
Quality flakes and pellets should be given for the staple diet. For the best coloration from these fish add krill, brine shrimp, and fresh water shrimp to their diet.
Origin
Africa; Copadichromis azureus are to be found in Lake Malawi.
Sexing
Males will display an intense blue coloration; the females will have a more silvery body color.
Breeding
The male will dig a pit next to the rock work, blowing the sand against the rock through his gills. The female will follow the male into the spawning site and start depositing eggs. The eggs are quickly scooped into the females mouth while she is doing this the male will release the sperm which is also taken into the female’s mouth. The fry should be released after 3 weeks and can be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp.
Lifespan
The expected life span for Copadichromis azureus is 5-8 years.
Short description
Copadichromis azureus are a schooling cichlids, at least 4 males should be kept with three females. Hiding places and plenty of rock work should be added to the tank.