The Painted ctenopharynx (Ctenopharynx pictus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 13 cm.
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Description
The painted ctenopharynx is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 13 cm and has a streamlined, silvery body with a fine pattern; courting males show bluish tints. It inhabits rocky areas with a deposit of fine sediment. With fine gill rakers and a protrusible mouth it sifts plankton and small invertebrates from the sediment and water column. As a maternal mouthbrooder the female carries the eggs and young in her mouth. Lake Malawi underwent an explosive radiation of hundreds of cichlids. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Painted ctenopharynx?
The Painted ctenopharynx has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Sifts plankton from sediment with fine gill rakers; maternal mouthbrooder of Lake Malawi.
Where does the Painted ctenopharynx live?
The Painted ctenopharynx lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; rocky areas with fine sediment.
How big does the Painted ctenopharynx get?
The Painted ctenopharynx grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Painted ctenopharynx dangerous to humans?
No, the Painted ctenopharynx is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Painted ctenopharynx edible?
The Painted ctenopharynx is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ctenopharynx
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Painted ctenopharynx?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Painted ctenopharynx is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone