Fin's Fish Guide
The Haplochromis royal blue (Otopharynx heterodon) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; silt-rich and transition habitats.
Description
The Otopharynx cichlid is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species has an elongate body; courting males colour up. It lives mostly on sediment-rich bottoms in deeper zones, but also in the intermediate sand-rock habitats. As an opportunistic omnivore it searches the bottom for small invertebrates, insect larvae and organic material. It is a maternal mouthbrooder: the female incubates the eggs and larvae in her mouth. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Haplochromis royal blue?
The Haplochromis royal blue has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Opportunistic bottom-forager of silty and transitional habitats; maternal mouthbrooder.
Where does the Haplochromis royal blue live?
The Haplochromis royal blue lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; silt-rich and transition habitats.
How big does the Haplochromis royal blue get?
The Haplochromis royal blue grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Haplochromis royal blue dangerous to humans?
No, the Haplochromis royal blue is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Haplochromis royal blue edible?
The Haplochromis royal blue is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Otopharynx
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Haplochromis royal blue?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Haplochromis royal blue is one of 12,519 species in the app.