Fin's Fish Guide
The Taeniochromis holotaenia is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 22 cm.
Description
Taeniochromis holotaenia is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species reaches about 22 cm and has an elongate, silvery-grey body with a continuous dark lateral stripe, to which the name refers. It occurs all over the lake over sand and rock bottoms. It is a predator that mainly hunts juvenile cichlids and invertebrates. Like most haplochromine cichlids of Lake Malawi the species is a maternal mouthbrooder, the female protecting the eggs and young in her mouth. It is eaten locally.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Taeniochromis holotaenia?
The Taeniochromis holotaenia has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Continuous dark longitudinal stripe; hunts juvenile cichlids; maternal mouthbrooder.
Where does the Taeniochromis holotaenia live?
The Taeniochromis holotaenia lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa.
How big does the Taeniochromis holotaenia get?
The Taeniochromis holotaenia grows to a maximum of about 22 cm. On average the species is around 14 cm.
Is the Taeniochromis holotaenia dangerous to humans?
No, the Taeniochromis holotaenia is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Taeniochromis holotaenia edible?
Yes, the Taeniochromis holotaenia is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Taeniochromis holotaenia?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Taeniochromis holotaenia is one of 12,519 species in the app.