Fin's Fish Guide
The Thicklip otopharynx (Otopharynx pachycheilus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
The thicklip otopharynx is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 17 cm and has a slender body and conspicuously thick lips with which it sucks invertebrates from rock crevices. It lives in the deeper rocky shore zone. Like other Malawi cichlids it is a mouthbrooder that protects the eggs and young in its mouth. The fish is harmless to humans and has not been evaluated by the IUCN (NE).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Thicklip otopharynx?
The Thicklip otopharynx has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Thick lips for sucking invertebrates out of rock crevices; mouthbrooder
Where does the Thicklip otopharynx live?
The Thicklip otopharynx lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Lake Malawi
How big does the Thicklip otopharynx get?
The Thicklip otopharynx grows to a maximum of about 17 cm.
Is the Thicklip otopharynx dangerous to humans?
No, the Thicklip otopharynx 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 Thicklip otopharynx edible?
The Thicklip otopharynx is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Otopharynx
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Thicklip otopharynx?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Thicklip otopharynx is one of 12,519 species in the app.