The Cunnington's lamprologus (Lepidiolamprologus cunningtoni) is a fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
Lepidiolamprologus cunningtoni is a slender, predatory cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species has an elongate, streamlined, silvery body with fine dark markings and reaches about 20 cm. It lives over sandy bottoms, often near the sand-to-rock transition, where it hunts small fishes as an ambush predator. Like other Lepidiolamprologus species it is a substrate spawner that lays and guards its eggs on a surface. Owing to its elegant, streamlined shape and hunting behaviour the species is prized by advanced cichlid keepers and of local fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cunnington's lamprologus?
The Cunnington's lamprologus is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Slender, streamlined stalking predator on sandy bottoms; substrate brooder.
Where does the Cunnington's lamprologus live?
The Cunnington's lamprologus is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa.
How big does the Cunnington's lamprologus get?
The Cunnington's lamprologus grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Cunnington's lamprologus dangerous to humans?
No, the Cunnington's lamprologus is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Cunnington's lamprologus edible?
The Cunnington's lamprologus is rarely eaten.
More photos

Want the complete picture on the Cunnington's lamprologus?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cunnington's lamprologus is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lepidiolamprologus
More from the family Cichlidae

Want the complete picture on the Cunnington's lamprologus?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cunnington's lamprologus is one of 12,519 species in the app.