Fin's Fish Guide
The White sandsifter (Lethrinops albus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
The white sandsifter is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 17 cm and lives as a bottom-dweller in deeper water, where with its protrusible mouth it takes mouthfuls of sand and sifts them through the gills to obtain benthic invertebrates. Like most Lake Malawi cichlids it is a maternal mouthbrooder, with the female incubating the eggs and larvae in her mouth. It is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the White sandsifter?
The White sandsifter has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Sifts sand with the protrusible mouth; maternal mouthbrooder
Where does the White sandsifter live?
The White sandsifter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Lake Malawi
How big does the White sandsifter get?
The White sandsifter grows to a maximum of about 17 cm.
Is the White sandsifter dangerous to humans?
No, the White sandsifter 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 White sandsifter edible?
The White sandsifter is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the White sandsifter?
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lethrinops
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the White sandsifter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the White sandsifter is one of 12,519 species in the app.