Fin's Fish Guide
The Happy (Mylochromis spilostichus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 22 cm.
Description
The spotted-line cichlid is a cichlid (Cichlidae) endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 18 cm and has an elongate body with a row of spots or a broken line along the flank, to which the name refers; courting males colour up. It lives over sandy bottoms, where as a predator it hunts by chasing smaller fishes close to the substrate. 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 Happy?
The Happy has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Interrupted line of flank blotches; sand-dwelling predator and maternal mouthbrooder.
Where does the Happy live?
The Happy lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; sandy bottoms.
How big does the Happy get?
The Happy grows to a maximum of about 22 cm.
Is the Happy dangerous to humans?
No, the Happy is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Happy edible?
The Happy is rarely 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.