Copadichromis chrysonotus

Copadichromis chrysonotus, the Golden-back Utaka, is one of the more graceful mid-water haplochromines for large Malawi tanks. Males develop a distinctive golden-yellow coloration across the dorsal surface and upper flanks, contrasting with a silvery-blue lower body and paired with yellow-tipped fins. The overall effect is of an elegantly two-toned fish that shows particularly well under warm-spectrum lighting.

This species is a plankton-feeder in nature, forming loose schools in open water over sandy substrates. In the aquarium it is peaceful and active throughout the mid to upper water column. It works beautifully as a counterpoint to the bottom-oriented Peacocks and sand-sifters in a mixed Malawi community, adding movement at levels that other species tend to ignore.

Maternal mouthbrooder. Females are plain silver-grey. Best maintained in groups of at least three to five to encourage natural schooling and display behavior. One of the more accessible and rewarding Copadichromis species for community Malawi tanks.

Water: pH 7.6–8.8, 24–28°C, GH 10–20, KH 10–18; clean oxygenated water; moderate filtration. Tank: 250 L minimum; wide open water column; group of 3–5 recommended; minimal substrate requirements. Feeding: Omnivore pellets, frozen Artemia, mysis, cyclops; supplement spirulina; feed twice daily. Breeding: Easy maternal mouthbrooder; females hold ~3 weeks; group maintenance encourages spawning. Compatibility: Peaceful; excellent with Aulonocara, Lethrinops, and other mid-sized Haps.