Fin's Fish Guide
The Deep water hap (Placidochromis electra) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The deep water hap is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 12 cm; adult males are handsomely silver-blue with a dark head and gill band. It stays over sandy bottoms near rocks and follows larger, digging fish to snap up disturbed invertebrates from the sand. Like other Malawi cichlids it is a mouthbrooder. The fish is harmless to humans, popular in the aquarium trade and assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Deep water hap?
The Deep water hap has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Follows rooting fishes for stirred-up prey; mouthbrooder
Where does the Deep water hap live?
The Deep water hap lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Lake Malawi
How big does the Deep water hap get?
The Deep water hap grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Deep water hap dangerous to humans?
No, the Deep water hap 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 Deep water hap edible?
The Deep water hap is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Placidochromis
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Deep water hap?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Deep water hap is one of 12,519 species in the app.