Fin's Fish Guide
The Venustus (Nimbochromis venustus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The venustus hap is a large cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species has a yellowish body with a brown, giraffe-like spotted pattern and, in males, a blue head. It lives over sand bottoms; juveniles stay in shallow water near rocks, while adults forage in deeper water. As an ambush hunter it sometimes lies on its side in the sand as if dead, to lure curious prey fishes and then snatch them. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Venustus?
The Venustus has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Giraffe-like spotted pattern; plays dead in the sand to lure small prey fishes; maternal mouthbrooder.
Where does the Venustus live?
The Venustus lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; sandy bottoms.
How big does the Venustus get?
The Venustus grows to a maximum of about 25 cm. On average the species is around 23 cm.
Is the Venustus dangerous to humans?
No, the Venustus is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Venustus edible?
The Venustus is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Nimbochromis
More from the family Cichlidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Venustus is one of 12,519 species in the app.