The Sand ahli (Sciaenochromis psammophilus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The sand ahli is a cichlid (Cichlidae) from Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 13 cm; dominant males are bright sky-blue, females and juveniles silver-grey. It lives at the transition from rock to sand bottom and hunts as a predator on small fish and invertebrates. It is a mouthbrooder: the female protects the eggs and young in her mouth. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sand ahli?
The Sand ahli has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly blue.
Where does the Sand ahli live?
The Sand ahli lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Sand ahli get?
The Sand ahli grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Sand ahli dangerous to humans?
No, the Sand ahli is harmless to humans.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sciaenochromis
More from the family Cichlidae
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