Fin's Fish Guide
The Striped Tanganyika cichlid (Bathybates vittatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 42 cm.
Description
The striped Tanganyika cichlid is a predatory cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 42 cm and has a slender, silvery body with dark longitudinal stripes. Unlike many cichlids it lives pelagically in open water, where it hunts in schools for small herring-like freshwater sardines (clupeids). The fish is a local food fish and also occurs in the aquarium trade. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Striped Tanganyika cichlid?
The Striped Tanganyika cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Pelagic schooling predatory cichlid; hunts freshwater sardines
Where does the Striped Tanganyika cichlid live?
The Striped Tanganyika cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Lake Tanganyika
How big does the Striped Tanganyika cichlid get?
The Striped Tanganyika cichlid grows to a maximum of about 42 cm.
Is the Striped Tanganyika cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Striped Tanganyika cichlid is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Striped Tanganyika cichlid edible?
Yes, the Striped Tanganyika cichlid is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Bathybates
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Striped Tanganyika cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Striped Tanganyika cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.