Fin's Fish Guide
The Lemaire's lamprologus (Lamprologus lemairii) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
Lamprologus lemairii is a predatory cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species has an elongate, brownish mottled body with a large mouth and reaches about 25 cm. It is regarded as one of the most voracious and predatory species of the genus and is therefore unsuited to the community aquarium. It stays in a fixed spot, often near rocks on sandy bottoms, where it lies half-buried in wait and lunges suddenly at passing fishes. It is a substrate spawner that lays and guards its eggs in a cavity or crevice. The species is of local fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lemaire's lamprologus?
The Lemaire's lamprologus has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Highly voracious ambush-predator cichlid that lies in wait for fishes half-buried.
Where does the Lemaire's lamprologus live?
The Lemaire's lamprologus lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa.
How big does the Lemaire's lamprologus get?
The Lemaire's lamprologus grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Lemaire's lamprologus dangerous to humans?
No, the Lemaire's lamprologus 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 Lemaire's lamprologus edible?
The Lemaire's lamprologus is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lamprologus
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Lemaire's lamprologus?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lemaire's lamprologus is one of 12,519 species in the app.