Fin's Fish Guide
The Mylodon sandsifter (Lethrinops mylodon) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The mylodon sandsifter is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 20 cm and is a deep dweller inhabiting sandy areas at greater depth. With a downward-protrusible mouth it digs and sifts sand, processing harder prey such as snails and insect larvae with powerful pharyngeal molar teeth, to which the name refers. The body is silvery. As a maternal mouthbrooder the female carries the eggs and young in her mouth. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mylodon sandsifter?
The Mylodon sandsifter has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Protrusible mouth and powerful pharyngeal grinding teeth to process hard-shelled prey from the sand.
Where does the Mylodon sandsifter live?
The Mylodon sandsifter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; deep sandy zones.
How big does the Mylodon sandsifter get?
The Mylodon sandsifter grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Mylodon sandsifter dangerous to humans?
No, the Mylodon sandsifter is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Mylodon sandsifter edible?
The Mylodon sandsifter is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Mylodon sandsifter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mylodon sandsifter is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lethrinops
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Mylodon sandsifter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mylodon sandsifter is one of 12,519 species in the app.