Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

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Placidochromis longimanus 'Thumbi East Island'
Genus: Placidochromis
Type locality: Shire Bar to Fort Maguire, Lake Malawi
Biotope: Reported mainly among unrooted plants such as Ceratophyllum at about 10 m depth; also observed around rocks at approximately 20 m.
Geographic distribution: Endemic to the southern part of Lake Malawi.
Sexual dimorphism: Males are slightly bluish, whereas females are silver.
Breeding: Males have been observed defending muddy areas between large boulders and courting females. They may gather near rocks for breeding purposes.
Special notes: Characterized by very long pectoral fins that extend to nearly halfway along the anal-fin base. Observed individuals did not show attraction to stirred-up sediment or follow sand-grubbing cichlids, distinguishing their behavior from that of some related species.

Photo: © Ad Konings
Photo: © Ad Konings