Fin's Fish Guide
The Bigeye deepwater cichlid (Diplotaxodon macrops) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The bigeye deepwater cichlid is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 13 cm and has a slender, silvery body with conspicuously large eyes, adapted to the deep, dim open water. As a plankton feeder it schools at depths between about 75 and 130 metres and catches small zooplankton. It is a mouthbrooder: the female carries the eggs and young in her mouth. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bigeye deepwater cichlid?
The Bigeye deepwater cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Very large eyes; schooling deep-water mouthbrooder
Where does the Bigeye deepwater cichlid live?
The Bigeye deepwater cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Lake Malawi (endemic)
How big does the Bigeye deepwater cichlid get?
The Bigeye deepwater cichlid grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Bigeye deepwater cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Bigeye deepwater cichlid 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 Bigeye deepwater cichlid edible?
The Bigeye deepwater cichlid 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 Diplotaxodon
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Bigeye deepwater cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bigeye deepwater cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.