Melanochromis chipokae
Overview
Melanochromis chipokae is a species of cichlid in the Cichlidae endemic to Lake Malawi where it is only known to occur at Chipoka. It lives in habitats characterized by patches of sand amongst rock. This piscivorous species can reach a length of 12 centimetres (4.7 in) SL.
It can also be found in the aquarium trade, which is the main threat to this species and which has caused a 90% decline in the population. This has led to the IUCN assessing this species as Critically Endangered.
Melanochromis chipokae faces severe population decline primarily due to overfishing and habitat degradation within its restricted range in Lake Malawi. The species is particularly vulnerable to collection for the aquarium trade, which has intensified pressure on wild populations. Sedimentation from agricultural runoff and coastal development has degraded the rocky reef habitats essential for this cichlid's survival and reproduction.
Habitat
This endemic cichlid inhabits rocky reefs and boulder-strewn areas in the shallow waters of Lake Malawi, typically at depths of 3-15 meters. The species requires clear water with abundant rocky crevices and algae-covered surfaces for feeding and breeding territories.
