Fin's Fish Guide
The Haplochromis lepturus line (Buccochromis nototaenia) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 23 cm.
Description
Buccochromis nototaenia is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species reaches about 23 cm and has an elongate, silvery-blue body with a dark stripe along the back. It stays at an average depth of about 10 m off sandy beaches, where it hunts over the open sand for juvenile sand-dwelling cichlids. Like most haplochromine cichlids of Lake Malawi the species is a maternal mouthbrooder, the female protecting the eggs and young in her mouth. It is eaten locally.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Haplochromis lepturus line?
The Haplochromis lepturus line has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Hunts juvenile cichlids over open sand; maternal mouthbrooder.
Where does the Haplochromis lepturus line live?
The Haplochromis lepturus line lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa.
How big does the Haplochromis lepturus line get?
The Haplochromis lepturus line grows to a maximum of about 23 cm. On average the species is around 14 cm.
Is the Haplochromis lepturus line dangerous to humans?
No, the Haplochromis lepturus line is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Haplochromis lepturus line edible?
Yes, the Haplochromis lepturus line is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Buccochromis
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Haplochromis lepturus line?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Haplochromis lepturus line is one of 12,519 species in the app.