Fin's Fish Guide
The Happy (Naevochromis chrysogaster) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The yellowbelly Malawi cichlid is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 18 cm and has an elongate body; males colour up blue with a yellowish belly in breeding dress. As a specialised hunter it feeds mainly on the eggs and larvae of mouthbrooding cichlids, which it robs from the mouth or nest. It is itself a mouthbrooder. 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. Robs eggs and larvae from broods; mouthbrooding cichlid
Where does the Happy live?
The Happy lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Lake Malawi (endemic)
How big does the Happy get?
The Happy grows to a maximum of about 18 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
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.