Fin's Fish Guide
The Featherfin cichlid (Ophthalmotilapia ventralis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
Ophthalmotilapia ventralis is a cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species reaches about 15 cm; males are metallic blue and have greatly elongated ventral fins with yellow, egg-shaped tips. It lives along rocky slopes, often well off the wall, solitary or in aggregations, and feeds on microorganisms and small zooplankton drifting by. Males build nests on the bottom and females brood the young in the mouth, releasing them close to the nest. The species is popular in the aquarium hobby and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Featherfin cichlid?
The Featherfin cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Males with long pelvic fins with yellow, egg-shaped tips; maternal mouthbrooder and sought-after aquarium fish.
Where does the Featherfin cichlid live?
The Featherfin cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa, along rocky slopes.
How big does the Featherfin cichlid get?
The Featherfin cichlid grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Featherfin cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Featherfin cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Featherfin cichlid edible?
The Featherfin cichlid is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ophthalmotilapia
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Featherfin cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Featherfin cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.