Fin's Fish Guide
The Ansorge's cichlid (Thysochromis ansorgii) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 9 cm.
West Africa, in slow-flowing and standing fresh water of Nigeria and the coastal region of the Gulf of Guinea among others.
Description
Ansorge's cichlid is a West African cichlid of the family Cichlidae reaching about 9 cm. The laterally compressed body is brownish with several dark cross-bars, fine pearly spots on the flanks and fins and a glossy sheen on the gill covers. The species lives in slow-flowing and still fresh water of West Africa, including Nigeria and the coastal region of the Gulf of Guinea, often among bankside vegetation. It is an omnivore eating small invertebrates, plant matter and detritus. Like many cichlids it forms pairs that clean a spawning site and then carefully guard and defend eggs and young. Because of its calm nature and attractive markings it is kept in the home aquarium.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ansorge's cichlid?
The Ansorge's cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. West African cichlid with dark vertical bars and mother-of-pearl spots; forms pairs that guard the brood carefully.
Where does the Ansorge's cichlid live?
The Ansorge's cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. West Africa, in slow-flowing and standing fresh water of Nigeria and the coastal region of the Gulf of Guinea among others.
How big does the Ansorge's cichlid get?
The Ansorge's cichlid grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Ansorge's cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Ansorge's cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Ansorge's cichlid edible?
The Ansorge's cichlid is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Ansorge's cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ansorge's cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.