Four-spotted Madagascar cichlid
📖 Overview
Four-spotted Madagascar cichlid (Ptychochromis oligacanthus) is a ray-finned fish of the family Cichlidae. It inhabits freshwater waters in benthic environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 25 cm. With a trophic level of 3.4, it is a low-level carnivore, feeding on invertebrates and small organisms. It is assessed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Commercially fished and consumed as food.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Physical description for Four-spotted Madagascar cichlid is currently being compiled.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Four-spotted Madagascar cichlid is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
Eggs are layed in a nest on the ground. Larvae hatch after 8-10 days. Parents guard the young.
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Freshwater; brackish; demersal. Tropical; 24°C - 30°C ; 10°S - 25°S central western coast and Nosy-Be Island.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Four-spotted Madagascar cichlid is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Detailed nutritional data for Four-spotted Madagascar cichlid is currently being compiled from USDA FoodData Central.
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Four-spotted Madagascar cichlid has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔬 Full Nutritional Profile
Per 100g - Raw, per 100g - Source: USDA FoodData Central templates (generic fish average)
📊 Population Dynamics
| Year | Region | Index | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - |
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
| Language | Common Names |
|---|---|
| 🇫🇮Finnish | ruskosaariahven |
🦠 Common Diseases
The following diseases are known to affect Four-spotted Madagascar cichlid.
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 40 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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