Fin's Fish Guide
The Forktail cichlid (Neolamprologus furcifer) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
Neolamprologus furcifer is a cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species has a slender, brown-yellow body with large eyes and a deeply forked tail, to which the name refers, and reaches about 15 cm. It lives in the dark parts of rocky habitats and moves with its belly close to vertical rock walls and the undersides of overhanging blocks. The large eyes suggest a possibly nocturnal way of life. The diet consists of macro-invertebrates such as crustaceans and insect larvae, which it picks from slits and cavities.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Forktail cichlid?
The Forktail cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Lives with the belly flat against overhanging rocks; large eyes, possibly nocturnal; deeply forked tail.
Where does the Forktail cichlid live?
The Forktail cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa.
How big does the Forktail cichlid get?
The Forktail cichlid grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Forktail cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Forktail cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Forktail cichlid edible?
The Forktail cichlid is not usually eaten.
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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 Forktail cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Forktail cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.