Fin's Fish Guide
The Haplochromis square blotch (Ctenopharynx intermedius) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 21 cm.
Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; rock, transition and sand zones.
Description
The intermediate ctenopharynx is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 20 cm and has an elongate body with numerous small, comb-like throat teeth with which it sifts food from the sediment. It occurs in sediment-rich parts of the rocky zone, the intermediate zone, over sand and in open water. On the bottom it forages on small invertebrates from the silt. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. The species is popular with aquarists and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Haplochromis square blotch?
The Haplochromis square blotch has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Numerous comb-shaped pharyngeal teeth to sieve food from silt; maternal mouthbrooder.
Where does the Haplochromis square blotch live?
The Haplochromis square blotch lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; rock, transition and sand zones.
How big does the Haplochromis square blotch get?
The Haplochromis square blotch grows to a maximum of about 21 cm.
Is the Haplochromis square blotch dangerous to humans?
No, the Haplochromis square blotch is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Haplochromis square blotch edible?
The Haplochromis square blotch is rarely eaten.
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All data
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Status & sources
Same genus Ctenopharynx
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Haplochromis square blotch?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Haplochromis square blotch is one of 12,519 species in the app.