Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackbelly hap (Tyrannochromis nigriventer) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 35 cm.
Description
The blackbelly hap is a large predatory cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 35 cm and has an elongate body with a large mouth; courting males colour up bluish with a dark belly, to which the name refers. It prefers sediment-free rocky habitats in shallow areas. As a piscivore it hunts around rocks and into cracks for smaller fishes, especially rock cichlids (mbuna). It is a maternal mouthbrooder. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackbelly hap?
The Blackbelly hap has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Large mouth; hunts mbuna around rocks; maternal mouthbrooder of Lake Malawi.
Where does the Blackbelly hap live?
The Blackbelly hap lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; shallow rocky zone.
How big does the Blackbelly hap get?
The Blackbelly hap grows to a maximum of about 35 cm.
Is the Blackbelly hap dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackbelly hap is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blackbelly hap edible?
The Blackbelly hap is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Tyrannochromis
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackbelly hap?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackbelly hap is one of 12,519 species in the app.