Fin's Fish Guide
The Fenestratus (Protomelas fenestratus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; transition from rocky shores to sand.
Description
The fenestratus haplochromis is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 14 cm; courting males are handsomely blue with yellow tints, while females and juveniles are plain with a pattern of dark blotches in a window or chessboard pattern, to which the name refers. It inhabits the transition from rocky shores to adjacent sandy areas. With a protrusible mouth it grazes aufwuchs and sifts small invertebrates from the sediment. As a maternal mouthbrooder the female carries the eggs and young in her mouth. The species is popular in the aquarium and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fenestratus?
The Fenestratus has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a spots pattern. Males blue with yellow; females with window/chessboard blotches, maternal mouthbrooder.
Where does the Fenestratus live?
The Fenestratus lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; transition from rocky shores to sand.
How big does the Fenestratus get?
The Fenestratus grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Fenestratus dangerous to humans?
No, the Fenestratus is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Fenestratus edible?
The Fenestratus is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Fenestratus?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fenestratus is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Protomelas
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Fenestratus?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fenestratus is one of 12,519 species in the app.