Fin's Fish Guide
The Fivebar cichlid (Neolamprologus tretocephalus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; transition zone between rocks and sand.
Description
The fivebar cichlid is a cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a white to blue-white body with five broad black crossbars and blue fin margins. It inhabits the transition zone between rocks and sand and stays among rocks and empty shells. As a small predator it feeds on snails, small crustaceans and invertebrates, which it crushes with powerful jaws. As a substrate spawner it lays its eggs in a cavity or crevice and the pair fiercely guards the brood. The fivebar cichlid is popular in the aquarium but territorial. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fivebar cichlid?
The Fivebar cichlid has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Five broad black vertical bars; substrate brooder that cracks snails and fiercely defends its brood.
Where does the Fivebar cichlid live?
The Fivebar cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; transition zone between rocks and sand.
How big does the Fivebar cichlid get?
The Fivebar cichlid grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Fivebar cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Fivebar cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Fivebar cichlid edible?
The Fivebar 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 Fivebar cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fivebar cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.