Fin's Fish Guide
The Tanganyika sand cichlid (Lestradea perspicax) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
Lestradea perspicax is a cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species has a slender, silvery body with yellow tints and reaches about 14 cm. It is a semi-pelagic roamer that lives in groups over shallow sandy bottoms and feeds mainly on microorganisms taken from the water and sediment. Like many Tanganyika cichlids the species is a mouthbrooder: the female broods the eggs and young in her mouth. The fish is of local fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tanganyika sand cichlid?
The Tanganyika sand cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Semi-pelagic wanderer of sandy bottoms; the female is a mouthbrooder.
Where does the Tanganyika sand cichlid live?
The Tanganyika sand cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa.
How big does the Tanganyika sand cichlid get?
The Tanganyika sand cichlid grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Tanganyika sand cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Tanganyika sand cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Tanganyika sand cichlid edible?
Yes, the Tanganyika sand cichlid is commonly 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 Tanganyika sand cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tanganyika sand cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.