Fin's Fish Guide
The Fourspine cichlid (Neolamprologus tetracanthus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
Neolamprologus tetracanthus, the fourspine cichlid, is a cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species has a streamlined body with rows of light, pearly spots on a dark background and reaches about 20 cm. It lives over sandy bottoms and feeds on mollusks, insect larvae and fish. Unlike typical shell-crushers it does not crush the shell but sucks the mollusk out of it. Like other Neolamprologus species it is a substrate spawner that guards its eggs. Owing to its handsome pearly pattern the species is popular with cichlid keepers and of local fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fourspine cichlid?
The Fourspine cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Pearly spots on a dark background; sucks molluscs out of their shells.
Where does the Fourspine cichlid live?
The Fourspine cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa.
How big does the Fourspine cichlid get?
The Fourspine cichlid grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Fourspine cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Fourspine cichlid is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Fourspine cichlid edible?
The Fourspine cichlid is rarely 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 Fourspine cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fourspine cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.