Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotcheek haplochromis (Thoracochromis stigmatogenys) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Central Africa; shallow, vegetated zones of rivers and creeks of the Congo basin.
Description
The spotcheek haplochromis is a small haplochromine cichlid from the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a stocky body with a fine pattern on the head; courting males are more brightly coloured than the plain females. It inhabits shallow, vegetated shore and bottom zones of rivers and creeks. As an omnivore it feeds on small invertebrates, insect larvae, algae and detritus. Like most haplochromines it is 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 Spotcheek haplochromis?
The Spotcheek haplochromis has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Fine head pattern; maternal mouthbrooder from the Congo basin.
Where does the Spotcheek haplochromis live?
The Spotcheek haplochromis lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central Africa; shallow, vegetated zones of rivers and creeks of the Congo basin.
How big does the Spotcheek haplochromis get?
The Spotcheek haplochromis grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Spotcheek haplochromis dangerous to humans?
No, the Spotcheek haplochromis is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Spotcheek haplochromis edible?
The Spotcheek haplochromis is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Thoracochromis
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Spotcheek haplochromis?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotcheek haplochromis is one of 12,519 species in the app.