Fin's Fish Guide
The Threespot utaka (Copadichromis trimaculatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The threespot utaka is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a deep body with three characteristic dark blotches on the flank; males turn blue with yellow in breeding dress. As a plankton feeder it swims over rocky and sandy shores and catches small zooplankton. It is a mouthbrooder: the female carries the eggs and young in her mouth. The fish appears in the aquarium hobby. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Threespot utaka?
The Threespot utaka has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a spots pattern. Three dark flank blotches; mouthbrooding plankton feeder
Where does the Threespot utaka live?
The Threespot utaka lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Lake Malawi (endemic)
How big does the Threespot utaka get?
The Threespot utaka grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Threespot utaka dangerous to humans?
No, the Threespot utaka is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Threespot utaka edible?
The Threespot utaka is not usually eaten.
More photos
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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
Want the complete picture on the Threespot utaka?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Threespot utaka is one of 12,519 species in the app.