Fin's Fish Guide
The Cunnington's featherfin (Cunningtonia longiventralis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
Cunnington's featherfin is a cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 14 cm and has a slender, silvery body; males have elongated, feather-like pelvic fins. It is gregarious and lives in groups drifting in the water column above rocky slopes. As a plankton picker it picks drifting zooplankton from open water. As a maternal mouthbrooder the female carries the eggs and young in her mouth for protection. The species is popular in the aquarium. Owing to its modest size it is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cunnington's featherfin?
The Cunnington's featherfin has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Males with elongated, feather-like pelvic fins; hovering plankton picker and maternal mouthbrooder.
Where does the Cunnington's featherfin live?
The Cunnington's featherfin lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; above rocky slopes.
How big does the Cunnington's featherfin get?
The Cunnington's featherfin grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Cunnington's featherfin dangerous to humans?
No, the Cunnington's featherfin is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Cunnington's featherfin edible?
The Cunnington's featherfin is not usually 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 Cunnington's featherfin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cunnington's featherfin is one of 12,519 species in the app.