The Verduyn's utaka (Copadichromis verduyni) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
The Verduyn's utaka is a utaka cichlid (Cichlidae) from Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 12 cm; dominant males colour up bright metallic-blue, females and juveniles stay silver-grey. Unlike the bottom-dwelling mbuna it hovers in schools in open water and sucks up zooplankton with a highly protrusible mouth. It is a mouthbrooder: the female protects the eggs and young in her mouth. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Verduyn's utaka?
The Verduyn's utaka has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly blue.
Where does the Verduyn's utaka live?
The Verduyn's utaka lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Verduyn's utaka get?
The Verduyn's utaka grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Verduyn's utaka dangerous to humans?
No, the Verduyn's utaka is harmless to humans.
Is the Verduyn's utaka edible?
Yes, the Verduyn's utaka is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Copadichromis
More from the family Cichlidae
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