Fin's Fish Guide
The Haplochromis placodon pointed head (Trematocranus microstoma) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 23 cm.
Description
The Malawi snail cichlid is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species has an elongate body with a small mouth; courting males colour more brightly than the females. It lives in shallow shore waters and is often seen in vegetated zones, where it feeds mainly on snails it seeks among the plants and on the bottom. As a haplochromine cichlid it is a maternal mouthbrooder. Through its limited range it is considered endangered. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Haplochromis placodon pointed head?
The Haplochromis placodon pointed head has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Small mouth; snail-eating, maternal mouthbrooder of Lake Malawi, endangered.
Where does the Haplochromis placodon pointed head live?
The Haplochromis placodon pointed head lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; shallow vegetated shore waters.
How big does the Haplochromis placodon pointed head get?
The Haplochromis placodon pointed head grows to a maximum of about 23 cm.
Is the Haplochromis placodon pointed head dangerous to humans?
No, the Haplochromis placodon pointed head is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Haplochromis placodon pointed head edible?
The Haplochromis placodon pointed head is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Trematocranus
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Haplochromis placodon pointed head?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Haplochromis placodon pointed head is one of 12,519 species in the app.