Fin's Fish Guide
The Striped telmatochromis (Telmatochromis vittatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; rocky zone and shell beds to 20 m.
Description
The striped telmatochromis is a small cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 9 cm and has an elongate, light-brown body with a few dark longitudinal stripes. For such a small fish it lives rather deep, to at least 20 metres, in the rocky zone and among empty shells. As a bottom searcher it scrapes growth and picks small invertebrates from the substrate. As a substrate spawner it lays its eggs in crevices, cavities or empty snail shells, guarded by the parents. 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 Striped telmatochromis?
The Striped telmatochromis has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Dark longitudinal stripes; substrate brooder that deposits eggs in crevices and empty snail shells.
Where does the Striped telmatochromis live?
The Striped telmatochromis lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; rocky zone and shell beds to 20 m.
How big does the Striped telmatochromis get?
The Striped telmatochromis grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Striped telmatochromis dangerous to humans?
No, the Striped telmatochromis is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Striped telmatochromis edible?
The Striped telmatochromis is not usually eaten.
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Same genus Telmatochromis
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Striped telmatochromis?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Striped telmatochromis is one of 12,519 species in the app.