Fin's Fish Guide
The Malawi cichlid (Diplotaxodon limnothrissa) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The Malawi cichlid is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species is slender and silvery with large eyes, adapted to life in the dim deep water. It occurs both near the shore and far offshore, over reefs and the deeper shelf, and is abundant just above the anoxic depth. It feeds on drifting zooplankton and small fishes. As a cichlid it is a maternal mouthbrooder. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Malawi cichlid?
The Malawi cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Large eyes for the deep water; plankton-eating deepwater cichlid, maternal mouthbrooder.
Where does the Malawi cichlid live?
The Malawi cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; deep open water.
How big does the Malawi cichlid get?
The Malawi cichlid grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Malawi cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Malawi cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Malawi cichlid edible?
Yes, the Malawi cichlid is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Diplotaxodon
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Malawi cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Malawi cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.