Fin's Fish Guide
The Bream (Chilotilapia rhoadesii) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 23 cm.
Description
The snail-crushing cichlid is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species has a stocky body with strong jaws and pharyngeal teeth; courting males colour up blue. It occurs over muddy bottoms in both shallow and deep water. It is specialised in eating snails, especially of the genus Melanoides, which it crushes with its powerful pharyngeal teeth. It is a maternal mouthbrooder: the female incubates the eggs and larvae in her mouth. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bream?
The Bream has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Crushes snails with powerful pharyngeal teeth; maternal mouthbrooder of Lake Malawi.
Where does the Bream live?
The Bream lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; muddy bottoms.
How big does the Bream get?
The Bream grows to a maximum of about 23 cm.
Is the Bream dangerous to humans?
No, the Bream is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bream edible?
The Bream is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Bream?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bream is one of 12,519 species in the app.