Fin's Fish Guide
The Cichlid (Petrotilapia genalutea) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The cichlid is an mbuna cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species has a robust body; males are more handsomely coloured and often have yellowish cheeks. It inhabits shallow rocky habitats. With its brush-like, movable teeth it combs loose algae and growth from the surface of rocks. As an mbuna cichlid it is a maternal mouthbrooder. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cichlid?
The Cichlid has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Brush-like movable teeth for combing algae from rocks; maternal mouthbrooder.
Where does the Cichlid live?
The Cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; shallow rocky habitats.
How big does the Cichlid get?
The Cichlid grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Cichlid edible?
The Cichlid is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Petrotilapia
More from the family Cichlidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.