Fin's Fish Guide
The Protomelas triaenodon is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
Protomelas triaenodon is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 15 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 grazes aufwuchs and picks small invertebrates. 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 Protomelas triaenodon?
The Protomelas triaenodon has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Aufwuchs-grazing rock-and-sand dweller; mouthbrooder
Where does the Protomelas triaenodon live?
The Protomelas triaenodon lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Lake Malawi (endemic)
How big does the Protomelas triaenodon get?
The Protomelas triaenodon grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Protomelas triaenodon dangerous to humans?
No, the Protomelas triaenodon 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 Protomelas triaenodon edible?
The Protomelas triaenodon is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Protomelas
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Protomelas triaenodon?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Protomelas triaenodon is one of 12,519 species in the app.