Fin's Fish Guide
The Buettikofer's cichlid (Pelmatochromis buettikoferi) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 23 cm.
Description
Buettikofer's cichlid is a West African cichlid occurring in coastal rivers from Senegal to Liberia. The species grows to about 23 cm and has a stocky, usually brownish body with a continuous, spiny dorsal fin. As an omnivore it feeds on small food items such as detritus and insect larvae from the bottom. It is probably an open-substrate spawner, laying its eggs on a cleaned surface rather than mouthbrooding. The species inhabits slow-flowing and standing fresh waters. It is harmless to humans and of limited local fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Buettikofer's cichlid?
The Buettikofer's cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Open-substrate spawner (does not brood in the mouth); bottom-oriented omnivore.
Where does the Buettikofer's cichlid live?
The Buettikofer's cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. West Africa; coastal rivers from Senegal (Casamance) to Liberia.
How big does the Buettikofer's cichlid get?
The Buettikofer's cichlid grows to a maximum of about 23 cm.
Is the Buettikofer's cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Buettikofer's cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pelmatochromis
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Buettikofer's cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Buettikofer's cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.