Fin's Fish Guide
The Sharpeye mbuna (Pseudotropheus perspicax) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The sharpeye mbuna is an mbuna cichlid (Cichlidae) from Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 10 cm and has an elongate body that varies in colour by location, from banded blue to orange. As a bottom-dweller of the rocky shore it rasps the algal mat ('aufwuchs') from rocks and picks small invertebrates from it. It is a mouthbrooder: the female protects eggs and young in her mouth. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sharpeye mbuna?
The Sharpeye mbuna has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly blue.
Where does the Sharpeye mbuna live?
The Sharpeye mbuna lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Africa: Malawi
How big does the Sharpeye mbuna get?
The Sharpeye mbuna grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Sharpeye mbuna dangerous to humans?
No, the Sharpeye mbuna 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 Sharpeye mbuna edible?
Yes, the Sharpeye mbuna is commonly eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Sharpeye mbuna?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sharpeye mbuna is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pseudotropheus
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Sharpeye mbuna?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sharpeye mbuna is one of 12,519 species in the app.