The Malawi staurotaenia (Hemitaeniochromis urotaenia) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 22 cm.
Description
The Malawi staurotaenia is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 22 cm and has a slender, silvery body, often with a dark longitudinal stripe extending into the tail. It is a predator that hunts small fish in the open and rocky zones of the lake. Like other Malawi cichlids it is a mouthbrooder that protects the eggs and young in its mouth. The fish is harmless to humans and has not been evaluated by the IUCN (NE).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Malawi staurotaenia?
The Malawi staurotaenia has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Malawi staurotaenia live?
The Malawi staurotaenia lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Malawi staurotaenia get?
The Malawi staurotaenia grows to a maximum of about 22 cm.
Is the Malawi staurotaenia dangerous to humans?
No, the Malawi staurotaenia is harmless to humans.
Is the Malawi staurotaenia edible?
The Malawi staurotaenia is rarely eaten.
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
More from the family Cichlidae
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