Fin's Fish Guide
The Elegant cichlid (Maylandia elegans) is a fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The elegant cichlid is a cichlid of the genus Maylandia, endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 10 cm; courting males often turn bluish with dark crossbars, while females are duller. Unlike most mbunas it does not live in the rocky zone but over open sandy bottoms, usually deeper than 10 m. There it picks small invertebrates from the silty layer covering the sand. It is a maternal mouthbrooder: the female incubates the eggs and larvae in her mouth. The species is popular with aquarists and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Elegant cichlid?
The Elegant cichlid is mainly blue and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Sand-dwelling Malawi cichlid that picks invertebrates from the silt layer; maternal mouthbrooder.
Where does the Elegant cichlid live?
The Elegant cichlid is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; rocky zone along the shore.
How big does the Elegant cichlid get?
The Elegant cichlid grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Elegant cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Elegant cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Elegant cichlid edible?
The Elegant cichlid is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Maylandia
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Elegant cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Elegant cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.