Fin's Fish Guide
The Happy (Placidochromis subocularis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; sand-rock transition habitat and open sand.
Description
The Placidochromis cichlid is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species has an elongate body; courting males colour up. It has been observed in the intermediate sand-rock habitat and also over open sand. On the bottom it feeds on invertebrates, including snails and insect larvae. 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 an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Bottom-foraging Malawi cichlid of the sand-rock transition zone; 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; sand-rock transition habitat and open sand.
How big does the Happy get?
The Happy grows to a maximum of about 16 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 Placidochromis
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.