Coptodon dageti
Aquarist: NOCOfishjunkie
Species: Coptodon dageti
Description
A west African Tilapia species found in the lakes and rivers of the upper Senegal, upper and middle Niger system, upper Comoe, Volta, Mono, Bénoué and Lake Chad. A substrate spawner with both parents guarding fry. Known for large spawns, they are exceptional parents. Females will lay on hard surfaces such as wood or rocks and tend to the brood for weeks after. A large species that can reach 16” in length with typical specimens measuring around 12”. Typically a grayish brown in color. During breeding they will display a red belly with a yellow flanks and bifurcated vertical bars on the upper flanks.
Category: Cichlids
Global Region: Africa
Distribution: upper Senegal, upper and middle Niger system, upper Comoe, Volta, Mono, Bénoué and Lake Chad
Aquarist Notes
Collection Point: Antimpoku Ghana, Volta River
Genetic Line: Wild Caught
Year Acquired: 2024
A lucky catch on a west African import. The fish seem to be a hidden gem for dedicated hobbyists. A quite robust and beautiful fish during spawning. They are mildly aggressive and are more of a conspecific rather than heterospecific aggressor. A large tank is necessary for these fish. Currently they have spawn in a 6ft 125g tank but a minimum of 75-90g should suffice. The fish is relatively new to the hobby and still a mystery. More to learn as we observe this magnificent find.
Species Spawned: Yes
Large spawns with 500+ eggs. Both parents tend to fry and are exceptional parents. Pair bonding seems to be the case with this relatively mysterious fish.