The Mloto utaka (Copadichromis mloto) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The mloto utaka is a plankton-feeding cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species belongs to the utaka, cichlids that live in schools in open water and hunt zooplankton. It grows to about 14 cm; breeding males are handsomely blue and stay in breeding colour longer than the females. The protrusible mouth is adapted to snap plankton from the water. Like most Lake Malawi cichlids it is a maternal mouthbrooder. Owing to insufficient data the IUCN lists the species as Data Deficient (DD).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mloto utaka?
The Mloto utaka has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Mloto utaka live?
The Mloto utaka lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Mloto utaka get?
The Mloto utaka grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Mloto utaka dangerous to humans?
No, the Mloto utaka is harmless to humans.
Is the Mloto utaka edible?
Yes, the Mloto utaka is commonly eaten.
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Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
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Status & sources
Same genus Copadichromis
More from the family Cichlidae
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