Fin's Fish Guide
The Redfinned cichlid (Labeotropheus trewavasae) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
Trewavas's scrapermouth mbuna is a mbuna cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 12 cm and occurs in many colour morphs; the OB females (orange-black blotched) are especially striking. Characteristic is the inferior mouth with an overhanging, knobbly upper lip, adapted to remove algae (aufwuchs) from the rocks with a scraping motion, supplemented with small crustaceans and worms. It inhabits the rocky zone of the lake. As a maternal mouthbrooder the female carries the eggs and young in her mouth. The species is popular in the aquarium and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Redfinned cichlid?
The Redfinned cichlid has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly multicoloured and shows a spots pattern. Inferior mouth with an overhanging upper lip for scraping algae off rocks; many colour variants, mouthbrooder.
Where does the Redfinned cichlid live?
The Redfinned cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; rocky zone.
How big does the Redfinned cichlid get?
The Redfinned cichlid grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Redfinned cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Redfinned cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Redfinned cichlid edible?
The Redfinned cichlid is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Labeotropheus
More from the family Cichlidae
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