Copadichromis Ivoryhead Mloto Lupingu

Copadichromis trewavasae "Lupingu" (Ivoryhead Mloto) is a peaceful, sand-sifting Lake Malawi utaka requiring a 75+ gallon tank, hard/alkaline water (pH 7.8-8.6), and temperatures of (76-82F). They are active swimmers needing open space alongside rockwork for breeding. Provide an omnivorous diet of high-quality pellets, flakes, and frozen foods.

Tank Requirements/Tank Size: A minimum of 75 gallons is recommended for a group of Ivory Head Mlotos.

Environment: Use a sandy substrate for sifting, mixed with rockwork, caves, and overhangs to provide hiding spots.

Water Conditions: They prefer hard, alkaline water with a pH of (7.8–8.6).Temperature: Ideal temperatures are between (76-82F) (24-28C).Filtration: Excellent filtration is required, along with regular water changes (20-30% monthly) to maintain high water quality.

Diet and Feeding: They are omnivores, feeding on plankton and small invertebrates in the wild.

Foods: Feed high-quality pellets, flakes, and frozen or live food, such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and mysis.

Supplement: Provide spirulina-based foods for balanced nutrition.

Temperament and Tank Mates: Generally peaceful, but males are territorial during breeding. Best kept with other calm Malawi haps and peacocks. Avoid aggressive mbuna species.

Stocking: Recommended to keep in groups with 1 male and 2–3 females.

BreedingType: Maternal mouthbrooder.

Behavior: Males are cave/sand spawners, often under a rock, using sand to create a nest. Incubation: Females carry the eggs and fry in their mouths for approximately 18-24 days.

* Pictures are of Males *