Fin's Fish Guide
The Malawi scale-eater (Genyochromis mento) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; intermediate and rocky biotopes.
Description
The Malawi scale-eater is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 13 cm and is notorious for its feeding habit: it is a scale- and fin-eater that tears pieces from the scales and fins of other fishes. It occurs in all kinds of habitats but rarely over open sand; it stays mainly in intermediate and purely rocky biotopes. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. Owing to its unusual diet it is remarkable among the cichlids. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Malawi scale-eater?
The Malawi scale-eater has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Notorious scale- and fin-eater that tears chunks out of other fishes; maternal mouthbrooder.
Where does the Malawi scale-eater live?
The Malawi scale-eater lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; intermediate and rocky biotopes.
How big does the Malawi scale-eater get?
The Malawi scale-eater grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Malawi scale-eater dangerous to humans?
No, the Malawi scale-eater is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Malawi scale-eater edible?
The Malawi scale-eater is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Malawi scale-eater?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Malawi scale-eater is one of 12,519 species in the app.