Fin's Fish Guide
The Longarm sandsifter (Lethrinops longimanus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The longarm sandsifter is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 15 cm and is a deep dweller inhabiting sandy areas at greater depth. With a downward-protrusible mouth it digs and sifts sand to extract insect larvae and small invertebrates, a specialised feeding mode typical of the genus Lethrinops. The body is silvery with a fine pattern. 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 Longarm sandsifter?
The Longarm sandsifter has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Protrusible mouth to sieve sand for insect larvae; deep-water mouthbrooder of Lake Malawi.
Where does the Longarm sandsifter live?
The Longarm sandsifter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; deep sandy zones.
How big does the Longarm sandsifter get?
The Longarm sandsifter grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Longarm sandsifter dangerous to humans?
No, the Longarm sandsifter is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Longarm sandsifter edible?
The Longarm sandsifter is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lethrinops
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Longarm sandsifter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Longarm sandsifter is one of 12,519 species in the app.