Fin's Fish Guide
The Ncheni (Dimidiochromis dimidiatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The Ncheni cichlid is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi and Lake Malombe in East Africa. The species grows to about 20 cm and has an elongate, laterally compressed body; males turn blue in breeding dress. As an ambush hunter it shelters among water plants in shallow water and darts at small fish. It is a mouthbrooder: the female carries the eggs and young in her mouth. The fish appears in the aquarium hobby. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ncheni?
The Ncheni has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Elongate body; ambush fish-eater and mouthbrooder
Where does the Ncheni live?
The Ncheni lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Lake Malawi (endemic)
How big does the Ncheni get?
The Ncheni grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Ncheni dangerous to humans?
No, the Ncheni 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 Ncheni edible?
The Ncheni is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Ncheni?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ncheni is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Dimidiochromis
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Ncheni?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ncheni is one of 12,519 species in the app.