Labidochromis maculicauda Lewis, 1982

Family:  Cichlidae (Cichlids), subfamily: Pseudocrenilabrinae
Max. size:  6.4 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  benthopelagic; freshwater
Distribution:  Africa: Endemic to Lake Malawi. Occurs in the north-western coast of Lake Malawi.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 17-18; Dorsal soft rays (total): 8-9; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 7-8. Has similar dentition to that of L. vellicans but inner teeth unicuspid, Body is more elongated, snout shorter, and coloration different. Possesses a pattern of orange-brown horizontal stripes along flanks but different from other species in its dorsal and caudal fin markings, very dark brown coloration in males, and head shape.
Biology:  Is abundant in shallow water, mainly over rocks, and occurs down to a depth of 12 m. Feeds primarily on chironomid larvae, but also feeds on trichopteran larvae, ostracods and other small invertebrates (Ref. 4889).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 22 June 2018 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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