Fin's Fish Guide
The Spangled cichlid (Limnochromis auritus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The kippy is a cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 13 cm and has an elongate, pearly body with a fine, shining pattern. It lives over soft bottoms of the lake and feeds on small invertebrates and plankton. Limnochromis auritus has long been known to aquarists as an easygoing, adaptable species. It is noteworthy among the lake's mouthbrooders in that both parents take turns carrying the brood in the mouth, a form of biparental mouthbrooding. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spangled cichlid?
The Spangled cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Biparental mouthbrooder: both parents carry the brood in the mouth in turn.
Where does the Spangled cichlid live?
The Spangled cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; soft bottoms.
How big does the Spangled cichlid get?
The Spangled cichlid grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Spangled cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Spangled cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Spangled cichlid edible?
The Spangled cichlid is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Spangled cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spangled cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Limnochromis
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Spangled cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spangled cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.