Fin's Fish Guide
The Fairy cichlid (Neolamprologus brichardi) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The fairy cichlid is a graceful cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 9 cm and has a slender, pale beige body with gracefully extended fin tips and a yellow mark behind the eye. It lives along rocky slopes and feeds mainly on zooplankton picked from open water. A breeding pair establishes a territory it defends jointly, and older offspring help care for later broods, a form of cooperative breeding. The species is popular in the aquarium and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fairy cichlid?
The Fairy cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Gracefully tapering fin tips; cooperative parental care in which older juveniles help.
Where does the Fairy cichlid live?
The Fairy cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; rocky slopes.
How big does the Fairy cichlid get?
The Fairy cichlid grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Fairy cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Fairy cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Fairy cichlid edible?
The Fairy cichlid 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 Neolamprologus
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Fairy cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fairy cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.