Deep-water habitats over hard bottom consisting of coarse sand or gravel,
recorded at depths between 78–135 m.
Geographic distribution:
Recorded from deep water near Ngara and in Domira Bay in Lake Malawi.
Typical adult size:
Up to about 20 cm total length.
Diet:
Shrimp remains were found in the stomach of an examined specimen.
Special notes:
Characterized by greatly enlarged, lobed lips. The lips bear taste buds on
the exposed outer surface. The species resembles thick-lipped taxa such as
Placidochromis milomo in general appearance but retains the
three-spot pattern typical of the genus.
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