Fin's Fish Guide
The Hemibates cichlid (Hemibates stenosoma) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; muddy bottoms, often deeper water.
Description
The Hemibates cichlid is a predatory cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 30 cm and has an elongate, silvery body with a pattern of dark blotches and a large mouth. It forms schools over mud bottoms, often in deeper water. As an ambush piscivore it hunts small fishes and shrimp-like crustaceans. As a maternal mouthbrooder the female carries the eggs and young in her mouth for protection. The species is one of the pelagic predatory cichlids of the lake and is a local food fish. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hemibates cichlid?
The Hemibates cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Schooling, pelagic fish-eater of Lake Tanganyika; maternal mouthbrooder.
Where does the Hemibates cichlid live?
The Hemibates cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; muddy bottoms, often deeper water.
How big does the Hemibates cichlid get?
The Hemibates cichlid grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Hemibates cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Hemibates cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Hemibates cichlid edible?
Yes, the Hemibates cichlid is commonly eaten.
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All data
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More from the family Cichlidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hemibates cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.