Fin's Fish Guide
The Malawi cichlid (Protomelas similis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The Malawi cichlid is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species has an elongate body; courting males colour more brightly than the inconspicuous females. It inhabits shallow, vegetated zones and feeds on water plants and algae that it grazes from leaves and bottom. As a haplochromine cichlid it is a maternal mouthbrooder: the female broods the eggs and young in her mouth. 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 blue and shows a plain pattern. Plant- and algae-eating mouthbrooder of the vegetated zones of Lake Malawi.
Where does the Malawi cichlid live?
The Malawi cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; shallow vegetated zones.
How big does the Malawi cichlid get?
The Malawi cichlid grows to a maximum of about 18 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?
The Malawi cichlid is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Protomelas
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.