Copadichromis Trewavasae Undu Reef – ‘Stunning Blue and Orange Malawi Schoolers’

Copadichromis Trewavasae Undu Reef fish originate from Lake Malawi and quickly become a highlight in any aquarium. Males show off intense metallic blue bodies, and their orange dorsal fins stand out sharply. Females stay silver-grey, so the group creates a beautiful contrast when they swim together. Because they remain peaceful and love schooling, many Australian aquarists choose this variant for their hap setups.

These active swimmers grow steadily and stay healthy with proper care. In addition, they adapt well to captive conditions, especially when breeders raise them responsibly.

Size and Lifespan

Males reach 12–15 cm in length, while females usually stay slightly smaller. With excellent water quality and a balanced diet, Copadichromis Trewavasae Undu Reef specimens often live 5–8 years in home aquariums. Therefore, they provide long-term enjoyment for dedicated keepers.

Ideal Tank Setup

Copadichromis Trewavasae Undu Reef fish need plenty of open water to school comfortably. Start with a tank of at least 200 litres, and use a sandy bottom with rocks placed along the sides. This arrangement leaves the centre free for swimming. Furthermore, keep pH between 7.8 and 8.6, temperature from 24–28°C, and water hardness 10–25° dGH. Strong filtration, good oxygenation, and a tight lid complete the setup, since these fish produce waste and sometimes leap.

To replicate its natural habitat:

• Choose fine sand as substrate
• Place rock piles only at the back and sides
• Provide strong water flow
• Perform weekly 30–40% water changes
• Install a secure lid

Compatible Tank Mates

These peaceful utaka do best in groups of one male with four to six females. They mix well with other calm Malawi haps in larger tanks. However, keep them away from aggressive mbuna groups.

Suitable tank mates include:

• Mild Aulonocara species (peacocks)
• Other non-territorial Copadichromis variants
• Similar-sized open-water haps

Diet and Feeding

These planktivores eagerly accept quality foods. Offer high-grade cichlid pellets or flakes daily as the main diet. Then, supplement with frozen brine shrimp, mysis, or cyclops several times a week. Occasionally add spirulina flakes for extra nutrition. Feed small amounts two or three times each day, and remove any uneaten food to keep the water clean.

Breeding and Behaviour of Copadichromis Trewavasae Undu Reef

Males intensify their colours and perform mid-water displays to attract females. Females mouthbrood the eggs for 18–24 days, so many keepers move holding females to a separate tank. After release, fry eat newly hatched brine shrimp or finely crushed flakes straight away. Using a fry tumbler often raises survival rates significantly.

Species Overview

• Species – Haplochromis mloto (formerly Copadichromis trewavasae)
• Common Name – Copadichromis Trewavasae Undu Reef, Mloto Undu Reef
• Origin – Undu Reef, Lake Malawi, Africa
• Diet – Planktivorous
• PH Range – 7.8–8.6
• Temperature – 24–28°C
• Breed Type – Maternal mouthbrooder
• Current Size – Approximately 4 cm
• Max Size – Approximately 12–15 cm (males)
• Tank Size – Minimum 200 litres
• Sex – Unsexed