Fin's Fish Guide
The Malawi hunter cichlid (Buccochromis spectabilis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 26 cm.
Description
The Malawi hunter cichlid is a fish-eating cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa, occurring at both ends of the lake. It grows to about 26 cm and has an elongate body with a fairly low number of lateral-line scales. It lives in shallow water near sandy shores and actively hunts smaller fish. Like most haplochromine cichlids of Lake Malawi it is a maternal mouthbrooder, with the female incubating the eggs and larvae in her mouth. It is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Malawi hunter cichlid?
The Malawi hunter cichlid has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Fish-eating mouthbrooding cichlid of sandy shores
Where does the Malawi hunter cichlid live?
The Malawi hunter cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Lake Malawi
How big does the Malawi hunter cichlid get?
The Malawi hunter cichlid grows to a maximum of about 26 cm.
Is the Malawi hunter cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Malawi hunter cichlid 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 Malawi hunter cichlid edible?
The Malawi hunter cichlid is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Buccochromis
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Malawi hunter cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Malawi hunter cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.