The Bigeye tropheops (Tropheops macrophthalmus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The bigeye tropheops is an mbuna cichlid (Cichlidae) from Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a stocky, deep body with large eyes; dominant males colour up blue or yellow, females stay duller. As a bottom-dweller of the rocky shore it rasps the algal mat ('aufwuchs') from rocks with a sturdy mouth. It is a mouthbrooder: the female protects eggs and young in her mouth. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bigeye tropheops?
The Bigeye tropheops has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly blue.
Where does the Bigeye tropheops live?
The Bigeye tropheops lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Bigeye tropheops get?
The Bigeye tropheops grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Bigeye tropheops dangerous to humans?
No, the Bigeye tropheops is harmless to humans.
Is the Bigeye tropheops edible?
Yes, the Bigeye tropheops is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Tropheops
More from the family Cichlidae
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