Fin's Fish Guide
The Lake Chala haplo (Ctenochromis pectoralis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The Lake Chala haplo is a small cichlid from fresh water of East Africa, originally from the Pangani system and surroundings. The species grows to about 7 cm and has a stocky body; males colour up more brightly with blue and yellow accents in breeding dress. As a bottom-dweller it searches rivers and lakes for small invertebrates, algae and aufwuchs. It is a mouthbrooder. Owing to habitat loss and introduced species the species has declined sharply. The IUCN assesses it as Critically Endangered (CR).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lake Chala haplo?
The Lake Chala haplo has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Bottom-foraging mouthbrooder; critically endangered by habitat loss
Where does the Lake Chala haplo live?
The Lake Chala haplo lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. East Africa
How big does the Lake Chala haplo get?
The Lake Chala haplo grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Lake Chala haplo dangerous to humans?
No, the Lake Chala haplo 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 Lake Chala haplo edible?
The Lake Chala haplo is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ctenochromis
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Lake Chala haplo?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lake Chala haplo is one of 12,519 species in the app.