Fin's Fish Guide
The Descamps' sand cichlid (Ectodus descampsii) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
Ectodus descampsii is a small cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species has a streamlined, silvery body with a conspicuous dark spot on the dorsal fin and reaches about 10 cm. It lives in groups over coarse sand bottoms, where it sifts the sand with its mouth and feeds on micro-organisms, diatoms and algae. Like many Tanganyika cichlids the species is a mouthbrooder, in which the female protects the eggs and young in her mouth. It is prized by specialist cichlid keepers and is fished locally.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Descamps' sand cichlid?
The Descamps' sand cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Dark blotch on the dorsal fin; sand-sifting mouthbrooder of Lake Tanganyika.
Where does the Descamps' sand cichlid live?
The Descamps' sand cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa.
How big does the Descamps' sand cichlid get?
The Descamps' sand cichlid grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Descamps' sand cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Descamps' sand 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 Descamps' sand cichlid edible?
The Descamps' sand cichlid is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Descamps' sand cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Descamps' sand cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Descamps' sand cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Descamps' sand cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.