Fin's Fish Guide
The Blue-eyed spotscale cichlid (Spathodus erythrodon) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; shallow, turbulent surf zone.
Description
The blue-eyed spotscale cichlid is a small cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 9 cm and has a stocky, brownish body with shining blue spots and conspicuously blue eyes, to which the name refers. It lives in the very shallow, turbulent surf zone on pebble and rock bottom, often in less than 30 cm of water. With its mouth it scrapes the algal growth (aufwuchs) and the small invertebrates living in it from the stones. As a mouthbrooder a parent protects the eggs and young in its mouth. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blue-eyed spotscale cichlid?
The Blue-eyed spotscale cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Glossy blue spots and blue eyes; algae scraper of the shallow surf zone, mouthbrooder.
Where does the Blue-eyed spotscale cichlid live?
The Blue-eyed spotscale cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; shallow, turbulent surf zone.
How big does the Blue-eyed spotscale cichlid get?
The Blue-eyed spotscale cichlid grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Blue-eyed spotscale cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Blue-eyed spotscale cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blue-eyed spotscale cichlid edible?
The Blue-eyed spotscale cichlid is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Spathodus
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Blue-eyed spotscale cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blue-eyed spotscale cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.