Cyprichromis microlepidotus (Poll, 1956)
Cyprichromis microlepidotus
photo by de Vos, L.

Family:  Cichlidae (Cichlids), subfamily: Pseudocrenilabrinae
Max. size:  11 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  benthopelagic; freshwater; pH range: 7.5 - 8.5; dH range: 10 - 18,
Distribution:  Africa: endemic to the northern part of Lake Tanganyika. Specimens have been observed along the northwestern (Democratic Republic of the Congo) and the northeastern (Burundi, Tanzania) shores of Lake Tanganyika (Ref. 46829, 52921).
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 12-14; Dorsal soft rays (total): 15-17; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 12-13; Vertebrae: 7-8
Biology:  Gregarious, occurs off a rocky slope; drifting plankton feeder but also feeds on shellfish; occurs in quiet waters (Ref. 6770). Pelagic species, occuring in deep water; copepods have been found in stomach of one specimen (Ref. 53528). Maternal mouthbrooder and typical lek-breeder (Ref. 46829).
IUCN Red List Status: Data deficient (DD); Date assessed: 31 January 2006 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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