Fin's Fish Guide
The Stappers's sand cichlid (Lestradea stappersii) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
Stappers's sand cichlid is a cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a slender, pearly body. It is found at greater depth than its relative Lestradea perspicax and lives over soft bottoms. With fine gill rakers and a probing mouth it feeds on micro-organisms, small zooplankton and small invertebrates from the sediment and water column. As a maternal mouthbrooder the female carries the eggs and young in her mouth. The species is popular in the aquarium. Owing to its small size it is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Stappers's sand cichlid?
The Stappers's sand cichlid has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Feeds on micro-organisms from the sediment; maternal mouthbrooder of deeper zones.
Where does the Stappers's sand cichlid live?
The Stappers's sand cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; deeper soft bottoms.
How big does the Stappers's sand cichlid get?
The Stappers's sand cichlid grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Stappers's sand cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Stappers's sand cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Stappers's sand cichlid edible?
The Stappers's sand cichlid is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lestradea
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Stappers's sand cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Stappers's sand cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.