Fin's Fish Guide
The Grauer's deepwater cichlid (Bathybates graueri) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
Grauer's deepwater cichlid is a predatory cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a streamlined, silvery body with dark markings, adapted to life in the open water of the lake. It forms schools and hunts mainly herring relatives (clupeids), the abundant small sardine-like fishes of Lake Tanganyika. As a fast piscivore it plays an important role in the lake's pelagic food web. Bathybates cichlids are maternal mouthbrooders. The species is a local food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Grauer's deepwater cichlid?
The Grauer's deepwater cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Pelagic fish-eater that hunts clupeids; maternal mouthbrooder of Lake Tanganyika.
Where does the Grauer's deepwater cichlid live?
The Grauer's deepwater cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; open water.
How big does the Grauer's deepwater cichlid get?
The Grauer's deepwater cichlid grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Grauer's deepwater cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Grauer's deepwater cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Grauer's deepwater cichlid edible?
Yes, the Grauer's deepwater cichlid is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Grauer's deepwater cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Grauer's deepwater cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Bathybates
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Grauer's deepwater cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Grauer's deepwater cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.