Fin's Fish Guide
The Eastern bream (Astatotilapia calliptera) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 15 cm.
East Africa, in vegetated shallow parts of Lake Malawi and in rivers and streams around the lake.
Description
Astatotilapia calliptera, the eastern happy, is a versatile cichlid of East Africa. The species reaches about 15 cm; males are bright yellow with blue tones, females plain silvery-grey. It occurs in vegetated shallow parts of Lake Malawi and in rivers and streams around the lake, tolerating varied conditions. Its diet is broad and includes invertebrates, algae, plants, small fishes and plankton. It is a maternal mouthbrooder and serves as a model organism for research into the rapid speciation of African cichlids. The species is of local fishery value and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Eastern bream?
The Eastern bream has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a plain pattern. Maternal mouthbrooder and model organism for research into the rapid speciation of cichlids; males bright yellow and blue.
Where does the Eastern bream live?
The Eastern bream lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. East Africa, in vegetated shallow parts of Lake Malawi and in rivers and streams around the lake.
How big does the Eastern bream get?
The Eastern bream grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Eastern bream dangerous to humans?
No, the Eastern bream is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Eastern bream edible?
Yes, the Eastern bream is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Eastern bream?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Eastern bream is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Astatotilapia
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Eastern bream?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Eastern bream is one of 12,519 species in the app.