Fin's Fish Guide
The Trematocara (Trematocara marginatum) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Endemic to Lake Tanganyika; in deeper water during the day, foraging in shallower water at night.
Description
Trematocara marginatum is a cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species reaches about 10 cm and has an elongate, silvery body with large eyes. The genus Trematocara includes the deepest-occurring cichlids in the lake; by day the fish stay at great depth and at night they migrate to shallower water to forage. Its diet consists of small zooplankton and small bottom invertebrates. The species lives in schools and is of local fishery value. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Trematocara?
The Trematocara has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Is among the deepest-living cichlids of Lake Tanganyika; moves into shallower water at night to forage.
Where does the Trematocara live?
The Trematocara lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika; in deeper water during the day, foraging in shallower water at night.
How big does the Trematocara get?
The Trematocara grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Trematocara dangerous to humans?
No, the Trematocara is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Trematocara edible?
The Trematocara is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Trematocara
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Trematocara?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Trematocara is one of 12,519 species in the app.