Fin's Fish Guide
The Happy (Mylochromis formosus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The handsome Mylochromis is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 13 cm and has an elongate body with a diagonal dark stripe; males colour up blue-yellow in breeding dress. As a dweller of the sandy transition zone it searches for small invertebrates and snails, which it crushes with its jaws. It is a mouthbrooder: the female carries the eggs and young in her mouth. The fish appears in the aquarium hobby. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Happy?
The Happy has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Diagonal dark stripe; snail-crushing mouthbrooder
Where does the Happy live?
The Happy lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Lake Malawi (endemic)
How big does the Happy get?
The Happy grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Happy dangerous to humans?
No, the Happy is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Happy edible?
The Happy is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Mylochromis
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Happy?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Happy is one of 12,519 species in the app.