Fin's Fish Guide
The Poll's haplo (Ctenochromis polli) is a fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
Ctenochromis polli is a small haplochromine cichlid from the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species has a streamlined body and reaches about 12 cm; males are more colourful than females and often bear bright spots on the anal fin. It inhabits slow-flowing, vegetated rivers and creeks and feeds as an omnivore on small invertebrates, insect larvae and plant matter. Like many haplochromine cichlids the species is a maternal mouthbrooder, in which the female protects the eggs and young in her mouth. Owing to its handsome colours it is sometimes found in the aquarium trade.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Poll's haplo?
The Poll's haplo is mainly multicoloured and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Colourful males with blotches on the anal fin; maternal mouthbrooder.
Where does the Poll's haplo live?
The Poll's haplo is mostly found around mixed bottom. Freshwater of the Congo basin in Central Africa.
How big does the Poll's haplo get?
The Poll's haplo grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Poll's haplo dangerous to humans?
No, the Poll's haplo 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 Poll's haplo edible?
The Poll's haplo is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Poll's haplo?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Poll's haplo is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ctenochromis
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Poll's haplo?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Poll's haplo is one of 12,519 species in the app.