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The Nonindigenous Occurrences section of the NAS species profiles has a new structure. The section is now dynamically updated from the NAS database to ensure that it contains the most current and accurate information. Occurrences are summarized in Table 1, alphabetically by state, with years of earliest and most recent observations, and the tally and names of drainages where the species was observed. The table contains hyperlinks to collections tables of specimens based on the states, years, and drainages selected. References to specimens that were not obtained through sighting reports and personal communications are found through the hyperlink in the Table 1 caption or through the individual specimens linked in the collections tables.

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Common name: African Lake cichlid

Synonyms and Other Names: mbuna cichlid

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.gov

Identification: The genus Pseudotropheus contains approximately 200 species (Axelrod 1993). Several large species complexes exist and the genus is in great need of systematic revision (Ribbink et al. 1983; Eccles and Trewavas 1989). Ribbink et al. (1983) surveyed Lake Malawi cichlids, providing descriptions of coloration and markings for identification. Many of the different color varieties, including hybrids, are common in the aquarium trade (Axelrod 1993). Color photographs of fish were given in Ribbink et al. (1983), Axelrod et al. (1985), Lewis et al. (1986), and Axelrod (1993). Depending on species, from about 5 to 18 cm (Axelrod 1993).

Size: 5 to 18 cm (Axelrod 1993).

Native Range: Tropical Africa. Lake Malawi.

Alaska	Hawaii	Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands	Guam Saipan

Hydrologic Unit Codes (HUCs) Explained
Interactive maps: Point Distribution Maps

Means of Introduction: Probable aquarium release (Whiteside and Berkhouse 1992).

Status: Reported from Texas.

Impact of Introduction: The impacts of this species are currently unknown, as no studies have been done to determine how it has affected ecosystems in the invaded range. The absence of data does not equate to lack of effects. It does, however, mean that research is required to evaluate effects before conclusions can be made.

Remarks: Many members of the mbuna cichlids are popular in the aquarium trade.

There are no known voucher specimens.

References: (click for full references)

Axelrod, H.R. 1993. The most complete colored lexicon of cichlids. Tropical Fish Hobbyist Publications, Inc., Neptune City, NJ.

Axelrod, H.R., W.E. Burgess, N. Pronek, and J.G. Walls. 1985. Dr. Axelrod's atlas of freshwater aquarium fishes. Tropical Fish Hobbyist Publications, Inc., Neptune City, NJ.

Eccles, D.H., and E. Trewavas. 1989. Malawian cichlid fishes: the classification of some haplochromine genera. Lake Fish Movies, Herten, Germany.

Lewis, D., P. Reinthal, and J. Trendall. 1986. A guide to the fishes of Lake Malawi National Park. World Wildlife Fund, Gland, Switzerland. 71 pp.

Ribbink, A.J., B.A. Marsh, A.C. Marsh, A.C. Ribbink, and B.J. Sharp. 1983. A preliminary survey of the cichlid fishes of rocky habitats in Lake Malawi. South African Journal of Zoology (Zoology Dierkunde) 18(3):149-310.

Whiteside, B.G., and C. Berkhouse. 1992. Some new collection locations for six fish species. Texas Journal of Science 44(4):494.

Other Resources:

Author: Nico, L.

Peer Review Date: 6/7/1999

This information is preliminary or provisional and is subject to revision. It is being provided to meet the need for timely best science. The information has not received final approval by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and is provided on the condition that neither the USGS nor the U.S. Government shall be held liable for any damages resulting from the authorized or unauthorized use of the information.