Melanochromis Heterochromis
📖 Overview
Melanochromis Heterochromis (Melanochromis heterochromis), first described by Bowers & Stauffer, 1993 is a small fish in the family Cichlidae (order Cichliformes). Adults typically reach 9.70 cm in maximum length. It inhabits freshwater systems including rivers, streams, and lakes. Recorded depth range: 2 to 4 metres. It occurs in Tropical waters. It feeds on a mix of small fish and invertebrates as a mid-level predator. On the IUCN Red List, it is classified as Least Concern.The species is kept in the aquarium hobby. Care requirements and behaviour align broadly with other Cichlidae kept in the hobby.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 17 - 19; Dorsal soft rays (total): 7 - 9; Anal soft rays: 6 - 8. Gill rakers on first ceratobranchial 2-4; gill rakers on first epibranchial 8-10.: fusiform / normal.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Melanochromis Heterochromis is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Freshwater; demersal; depth range 2 - 4 m . Tropical endemic to Lake Malawi (Ref.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
| Language | Common Names |
|---|---|
| 🇵🇹Portuguese | Mbuna-azul-elétrico |
🦠 Common Diseases
The following diseases are known to affect Melanochromis Heterochromis.
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 1 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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