Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackbelly cichlid (Neolamprologus nigriventris) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The blackbelly cichlid is a cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa, along the southwestern coast in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The species grows to about 10 cm and takes its name from its dark belly. It lives on mixed sand-rock bottoms between about 15 and 46 metres depth, in close contact with the rocks, and uses a highly developed lateral line system to detect prey. It feeds on crustaceans, insect larvae, copepods, snail fragments and algal material. Like other species of this genus it is a substrate spawner. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackbelly cichlid?
The Blackbelly cichlid has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Dark belly; strongly developed lateral line system for prey detection
Where does the Blackbelly cichlid live?
The Blackbelly cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Lake Tanganyika
How big does the Blackbelly cichlid get?
The Blackbelly cichlid grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Blackbelly cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackbelly 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 Blackbelly cichlid edible?
The Blackbelly cichlid is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Neolamprologus
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackbelly cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackbelly cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.