Fin's Fish Guide
The Dark deepwater cichlid (Benthochromis melanoides) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The dark deepwater cichlid is a cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 18 cm and has a slender, laterally compressed body with long fins; males colour up dark with light-blue accents in breeding dress. As a dweller of the deep open water over rocky drop-offs it catches small zooplankton. It is a mouthbrooder: the female carries the eggs and young in her mouth. The fish appears in the aquarium hobby. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dark deepwater cichlid?
The Dark deepwater cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Long fins; deepwater plankton feeder and mouthbrooder
Where does the Dark deepwater cichlid live?
The Dark deepwater cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Lake Tanganyika (endemic)
How big does the Dark deepwater cichlid get?
The Dark deepwater cichlid grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Dark deepwater cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Dark deepwater cichlid 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 Dark deepwater cichlid edible?
The Dark deepwater cichlid is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Benthochromis
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Dark deepwater cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dark deepwater cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.