Fin's Fish Guide
The Livingston's cichlid (Nimbochromis livingstonii) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
Livingston's cichlid is a large predatory cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a pale body with an irregular pattern of brown blotches. It is notorious for its peculiar hunting technique: it sinks onto its side on the bottom and plays dead, so that scavengers approach, whereupon it suddenly devours them. It occurs in all kinds of habitats, especially vegetated, sheltered bays with soft muddy bottoms, but also among rocks. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. The species is popular with aquarists and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Livingston's cichlid?
The Livingston's cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a spots pattern. Plays dead on the bottom to lure scavengers and suddenly devour them; maternal mouthbrooder.
Where does the Livingston's cichlid live?
The Livingston's cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; vegetated bays and rocky zones.
How big does the Livingston's cichlid get?
The Livingston's cichlid grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Livingston's cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Livingston's cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Livingston's cichlid edible?
The Livingston's cichlid is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Nimbochromis
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 Livingston's cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.