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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps
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Otopharynx speciosus 'Nkhomo Reef'.jpg Otopharynx speciosus 'South East Arm'.jpg
Previous pageOtopharynx speciosus 'South East Arm'
Genus: Otopharynx
Type locality: Vua, Lake Malawi, Malawi
Biotope: Demersal species over sandy and muddy substrates in deep water, recorded between 18–100 m and most commonly at 35–70 m; also caught offshore by fishermen using handlines at the bottom.
Geographic distribution: Widespread in Lake Malawi; most frequently recorded from the southern arms but found at least as far north as Vua.
Typical adult size: Largest recorded specimen 23.6 cm standard length and 28.4 cm total length.
Diet: Piscivorous predator. One examined specimen contained at least 32 small postembryonic cichlids measuring 12–28 mm total length.
Special notes: Largest species of the genus. Distinguished by a large dorsal midline spot on the nape, a suprapectoral spot extending above the upper part of the lateral line, and a distinct precaudal spot. Head large and wide with rounded frontal profile; 34–36 lateral-line scales and 10–13 gill rakers.

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Photo: © George Turner
Photo: © George Turner
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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps.
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