Fin's Fish Guide
The Soda cichlid (Alcolapia alcalica) is a saltwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The soda cichlid is a small African cichlid (Cichlidae) from the extreme soda lakes of the East African Rift. The species survives in highly alkaline, saline and sometimes hot water (around springs) in which hardly any other fish can live. It grazes mats of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) and diatoms from the bottom and shore stones. As a cichlid it is a maternal mouthbrooder. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Soda cichlid?
The Soda cichlid has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Survives in extremely alkaline, salty and sometimes hot soda-lake water; algae-rasping mouthbrooder.
Where does the Soda cichlid live?
The Soda cichlid lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. East Africa; extreme soda lakes of the rift valley.
How big does the Soda cichlid get?
The Soda cichlid grows to a maximum of about 12 cm. On average the species is around 8 cm.
Is the Soda cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Soda cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Soda cichlid edible?
The Soda cichlid is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Alcolapia
More from the family Cichlidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Soda cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.