Copadichromis pleurostigma yellow 4 - (Copadichromis pleurostigma) — 4-5cm

Overview

The Copadichromis pleurostigma, particularly the stunning yellow variety, ranks among Lake Malawi's most peaceful and spectacularly colored haplochromines, reaching 12 cm while requiring substantial 350-litre minimum aquarium. With peaceful temperament contrasting sharply with aggressive mbuna, this planktivorous species suits experienced Malawi keepers ready to create spacious communities with appropriate tankmates. Endemic to Lake Malawi's open waters, this maternal mouthbrooder thrives in hard alkaline water with open swimming space. Available for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co, this yellow malawi cichlid delivers breathtaking coloration and graceful behavior for aquarists seeking peaceful alternatives to belligerent mbuna, rewarding those who provide appropriate space with some of Lake Malawi's most refined beauty.

Appearance

The yellow variety of Copadichromis pleurostigma displays spectacular golden-yellow coloration that makes dominant males among Lake Malawi's most visually stunning cichlids. Breeding males develop intense vibrant yellow across entire body, creating remarkable visual impact. Females show more subdued silver-grey tones. The 12 cm adult size combined with elongate graceful proportions creates elegant presence. Scientific name "pleurostigma" references distinctive markings. Breeding males intensify yellow coloration dramatically during courtship, transforming into glowing golden specimens justifying the species' popularity among Malawi peacock and hap enthusiasts seeking maximum color with peaceful temperament.

Natural Habitat

Endemic to Lake Malawi, Copadichromis pleurostigma inhabits open waters and intermediate zones where it feeds on zooplankton and small organisms in water column—lifestyle dramatically different from rock-dwelling mbuna. Lake's stability—pH 7.5-8.5, very hard water, exceptional clarity, 23-26°C—has driven extraordinary diversity. This species occupies midwater zones, feeding on drifting plankton through filter-feeding rather than grazing rocks. The peaceful nature and planktivorous diet reflect evolution in open water away from intense territorial competition characterizing rocky mbuna habitat.

Aquarium Setup

Substantial 350-litre minimum essential for adult Copadichromis pleurostigma, with even larger volumes (500+ litres) preferred for mixed communities. Create open Malawi biotope with extensive swimming space—unlike mbuna, this species requires open areas more than dense rockwork. Provide some rocky structure for visual security and territorial boundaries, but emphasize open swimming zones. Sandy substrate with moderate rockwork at rear or sides. Avoid excessive decorations limiting swimming room. Powerful filtration 8-10x turnover maintaining pristine quality with moderate movement. Spacious environment essential for showcasing graceful swimming behavior and maintaining peaceful temperament.

Water Parameters

Maintaining very hard alkaline water essential. Target pH 7.5-8.5 using calcium-rich buffering substrates. Hardness very high (12-20 dGH). Temperature stable within relatively cool 23-26°C. Twice-weekly 30-40% water changes given 12 cm size and resulting bioload, controlling nitrates below 40 mg/L. Ammonia/nitrite always 0 ppm. Planktivorous diet produces different waste composition than herbivorous mbuna but excellent water quality remains critical.

Feeding

As planktivore/micro-predator, requires protein-rich nutrition replicating zooplankton and small organisms. Quality cichlid pellets/flakes supplemented heavily with frozen/live mysis, brine shrimp, krill. Use vegetable matter/spirulina only minor supplements—primarily carnivorous unlike herbivorous mbuna. Feed once-twice daily portions consumed within 2-3 minutes. Species' peaceful nature means can be outcompeted by aggressive feeders—ensure receives adequate nutrition in mixed communities.

Behaviour

Displays peaceful temperament—remarkable contrast to aggressive mbuna, making ideal for mixed Malawi communities with other peaceful species. Males establish loose territories defending spawning sites without extreme aggression. Shows graceful active swimming throughout water column. Dominant males display spectacular yellow coloration during courtship. Peaceful nature doesn't mean passive—can hold own against moderate aggression but suffers in highly aggressive setups. Creates visual and behavioral balance in Malawi communities dominated by belligerent mbuna.

Tank Mates

Compatible: other peaceful Malawi haps/utaka similar size (Copadichromis species, Aulonocara peacocks, Placidochromis). Synodontis catfish. Avoid: highly aggressive mbuna (constant harassment), large predatory cichlids, very small fish (bullied/eaten), fin-nippers. Best with peaceful to semi-aggressive Malawi species in truly spacious aquariums allowing territories without constant warfare.

Breeding

Maternal mouthbrooder. Males display, defend spawning sites attracting females. Provide harem groups (one male, multiple females), flat rocks/open spawning areas, stable alkaline water. Female carries 20-50 eggs in mouth 3-4 weeks without feeding. Remove fry or raise separately—juveniles face predation. Released fry 8-10mm, accept crushed foods and baby brine shrimp immediately, growing rapidly with frequent feedings.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co specializes in Lake Malawi cichlids, offering exceptional yellow Copadichromis pleurostigma for aquarists seeking spectacular color with peaceful temperament. Fully acclimatized, health-guaranteed, comprehensive support. Expert guidance creating balanced peaceful hap communities, proper chemistry, stocking strategies emphasizing color and compatibility over aggression. Order from UK's premier source for quality Malawi peacocks and experience stunning yellow coloration without mbuna aggression.