Fin's Fish Guide
The Bigeye tropheops (Tropheops macrophthalmus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The bigeye tropheops is an mbuna cichlid (Cichlidae) from Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a stocky, deep body with large eyes; dominant males colour up blue or yellow, females stay duller. As a bottom-dweller of the rocky shore it rasps the algal mat ('aufwuchs') from rocks with a sturdy mouth. It is a mouthbrooder: the female protects eggs and young in her mouth. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bigeye tropheops?
The Bigeye tropheops has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly blue.
Where does the Bigeye tropheops live?
The Bigeye tropheops lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Africa: Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania
How big does the Bigeye tropheops get?
The Bigeye tropheops grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Bigeye tropheops dangerous to humans?
No, the Bigeye tropheops 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 tropheops edible?
Yes, the Bigeye tropheops is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Tropheops
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Bigeye tropheops?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bigeye tropheops is one of 12,519 species in the app.