Fin's Fish Guide
The Largechin hap (Alticorpus mentale) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The largechin hap is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a streamlined body with large eyes and a conspicuously developed lower-jaw sensory system with large pores, adapted to detect vibrations and prey in the dim depths. It is more or less evenly distributed below 60 metres and prefers sandy bottoms. As a bottom searcher it sifts small invertebrates from the sediment with its lower jaw against the bottom. As a maternal mouthbrooder the female carries the eggs and young in her mouth. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Largechin hap?
The Largechin hap has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Lower jaw with large sensory pores for detecting prey in the depths; maternal mouthbrooder.
Where does the Largechin hap live?
The Largechin hap lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; sandy bottoms below 60 m.
How big does the Largechin hap get?
The Largechin hap grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Largechin hap dangerous to humans?
No, the Largechin hap is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Largechin hap edible?
The Largechin hap is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Alticorpus
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Largechin hap?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Largechin hap is one of 12,519 species in the app.