Fin's Fish Guide
The Candle hap (Stigmatochromis pholidophorus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
The Stigmatochromis is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 11 cm and has an elongate body with a row of dark spots; courting males colour up. It is irregularly seen over sand in the intermediate zone (rock-sand habitat) or off sandy beaches. As a predator it hunts smaller fishes from the bottom and at the surface. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Candle hap?
The Candle hap has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Row of dark flank blotches; predator of the rock-sand transition zone; maternal mouthbrooder.
Where does the Candle hap live?
The Candle hap lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; rock-sand transition zone.
How big does the Candle hap get?
The Candle hap grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Candle hap dangerous to humans?
No, the Candle hap is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Candle hap edible?
The Candle hap is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Candle hap?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Candle hap is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Stigmatochromis
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Candle hap?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Candle hap is one of 12,519 species in the app.