Fin's Fish Guide
The Wood's hap (Stigmatochromis woodi) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
Wood's hap is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 20 cm and has an elongate, slender predatory body; courting males colour up bluish. Larger specimens are usually encountered over open sand at deeper levels. It is a piscivore that hunts its prey over the sand, usually in pairs or in large groups. It is a maternal mouthbrooder: the female incubates the eggs and larvae in her mouth. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Wood's hap?
The Wood's hap has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Sand-dwelling fish-eater of Lake Malawi; maternal mouthbrooder.
Where does the Wood's hap live?
The Wood's hap lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; open sandy bottoms.
How big does the Wood's hap get?
The Wood's hap grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Wood's hap dangerous to humans?
No, the Wood's hap is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Wood's hap edible?
The Wood's hap is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Stigmatochromis
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Wood's hap?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Wood's hap is one of 12,519 species in the app.