Fin's Fish Guide
The Otopharynx tetraspilus is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
Otopharynx tetraspilus is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 16 cm and has an elongate body with a few dark blotches on the flank; males colour up bluish 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 tetraspilus?
The Otopharynx tetraspilus has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly blue and shows a spots pattern. Dark flank blotches; mouthbrooding rock-sand cichlid
Where does the Otopharynx tetraspilus live?
The Otopharynx tetraspilus lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Lake Malawi (endemic)
How big does the Otopharynx tetraspilus get?
The Otopharynx tetraspilus grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Otopharynx tetraspilus dangerous to humans?
No, the Otopharynx tetraspilus 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 tetraspilus edible?
The Otopharynx tetraspilus 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 tetraspilus?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Otopharynx tetraspilus is one of 12,519 species in the app.