The Burton's haplo (Astatotilapia burtoni) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
Astatotilapia burtoni is a small cichlid from Lake Tanganyika and its surrounding rivers in East Africa. It grows to about 8-12 cm and is noted for strong sexual dimorphism: dominant males turn bright yellow to blue with conspicuous egg-spots on the anal fin, while females and subordinate males stay grey. A mouthbrooder, the female incubates the eggs and young in her mouth. The species is omnivorous, eating algae, detritus, plankton and small invertebrates. Because of its striking social behaviour it is widely used as a model organism in scientific research.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Burton's haplo?
The Burton's haplo has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the Burton's haplo live?
The Burton's haplo lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Burton's haplo get?
The Burton's haplo grows to a maximum of about 15 cm. On average the species is around 12 cm.
Is the Burton's haplo dangerous to humans?
No, the Burton's haplo is harmless to humans.
Is the Burton's haplo edible?
The Burton's haplo is rarely eaten.
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Status & sources
Same genus Astatotilapia
More from the family Cichlidae
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