Fin's Fish Guide
The Degen's haplo (Haplochromis degeni) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
Degen's haplo is a cichlid from Lake Victoria and surrounding waters in East Africa. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a stocky, brownish to blue-grey body; breeding males colour up more intensely. As a bottom-dweller it searches shallow, plant-rich water for small invertebrates and molluscs. Like other Lake Victoria cichlids it is a mouthbrooder that protects the eggs and young in its mouth. The fish is harmless to humans and has not been evaluated by the IUCN (NE).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Degen's haplo?
The Degen's haplo has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Mouthbrooder; bottom forager in plant-rich water
Where does the Degen's haplo live?
The Degen's haplo lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Lake Victoria
How big does the Degen's haplo get?
The Degen's haplo grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Degen's haplo dangerous to humans?
No, the Degen's haplo 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 Degen's haplo edible?
The Degen's haplo is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Haplochromis
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Degen's haplo?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Degen's haplo is one of 12,519 species in the app.