Fin's Fish Guide
The Otopharynx ovatus is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
Otopharynx ovatus is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 20 cm and has an elongate body; males colour up bluish with yellow accents in breeding dress. As a dweller of the transition zone between rock and sand it searches for small invertebrates and aufwuchs. It is a mouthbrooder: the female carries the eggs and young in her mouth. The fish appears in the aquarium hobby. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Otopharynx ovatus?
The Otopharynx ovatus has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Inhabitant of the rock-sand transition zone; mouthbrooder
Where does the Otopharynx ovatus live?
The Otopharynx ovatus lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Lake Malawi (endemic)
How big does the Otopharynx ovatus get?
The Otopharynx ovatus grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Otopharynx ovatus dangerous to humans?
No, the Otopharynx ovatus 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 Otopharynx ovatus edible?
The Otopharynx ovatus is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Otopharynx
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Otopharynx ovatus?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Otopharynx ovatus is one of 12,519 species in the app.