Fin's Fish Guide
The Marsh haplochromis (Haplochromis paludinosus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The marsh haplochromis is an African cichlid from East Africa. The species grows to about 14 cm and has a stocky body; courting males are more brightly coloured than the plain females. It inhabits rivers and swampy areas with quiet, often vegetated water. As an omnivore it searches the bottom for small invertebrates, insect larvae, snails, algae and detritus. As a maternal mouthbrooder the female carries the eggs and young in her mouth for protection. Haplochromine cichlids show great species richness in East Africa. The species is a local food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Marsh haplochromis?
The Marsh haplochromis has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Maternal mouthbrooder of rivers and swamps; males more brightly coloured than females.
Where does the Marsh haplochromis live?
The Marsh haplochromis lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. East Africa; rivers and swampy areas with calm water.
How big does the Marsh haplochromis get?
The Marsh haplochromis grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Marsh haplochromis dangerous to humans?
No, the Marsh haplochromis is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Marsh haplochromis edible?
The Marsh haplochromis is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Marsh haplochromis?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Marsh haplochromis is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Haplochromis
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Marsh haplochromis?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Marsh haplochromis is one of 12,519 species in the app.