Fin's Fish Guide
The Snail-eating cichlid (Trematocranus placodon) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; shallow aquatic plant and sand zones.
Description
The snail-eating cichlid is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a streamlined body; courting males show blue tints. It inhabits shallow zones, especially beds of water plants and sandy areas. Characteristic are the powerful, rounded pharyngeal teeth (placodont dentition) with which it crushes the shells of snails - its main food - supplemented with other molluscs and small invertebrates. As a maternal mouthbrooder the female carries the eggs and young in her mouth. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Snail-eating cichlid?
The Snail-eating cichlid has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Powerful, rounded pharyngeal teeth for crushing snail shells; maternal mouthbrooder.
Where does the Snail-eating cichlid live?
The Snail-eating cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; shallow aquatic plant and sand zones.
How big does the Snail-eating cichlid get?
The Snail-eating cichlid grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Snail-eating cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Snail-eating cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Snail-eating cichlid edible?
The Snail-eating cichlid is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Trematocranus
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Snail-eating cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Snail-eating cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.