Fin's Fish Guide
The Upper Guinea tylochromis (Tylochromis leonensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 22 cm.
West Africa; large sandbanks of rivers and lagoons in the Upper Guinean province.
Description
The Upper Guinea tylochromis is a cichlid from West Africa occurring exclusively in the Upper Guinean province. The species grows to about 22 cm and has a stocky, silvery body with a small head and thick lips. It inhabits large sandbanks and soft-bottomed parts of rivers and lagoons, also in slightly brackish water. With its mouth it takes mouthfuls of sand from which it sifts molluscs, small invertebrates, detritus and plant matter. As a maternal mouthbrooder the female carries the eggs and young in her mouth. The species is a local food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Upper Guinea tylochromis?
The Upper Guinea tylochromis has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Sifts sandbanks in search of food; maternal mouthbrooder of the Upper Guinean province.
Where does the Upper Guinea tylochromis live?
The Upper Guinea tylochromis lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. West Africa; large sandbanks of rivers and lagoons in the Upper Guinean province.
How big does the Upper Guinea tylochromis get?
The Upper Guinea tylochromis grows to a maximum of about 22 cm.
Is the Upper Guinea tylochromis dangerous to humans?
No, the Upper Guinea tylochromis is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Upper Guinea tylochromis edible?
The Upper Guinea tylochromis is rarely eaten.
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Same genus Tylochromis
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Upper Guinea tylochromis?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Upper Guinea tylochromis is one of 12,519 species in the app.