Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

Genus:	Placidochromis
Biotope:	Sandy substrates in the northern and north-eastern part of Lake Malawi, often near sand-sifting cichlids but not observed closely following them.
Geographic distribution:	Hongi and Lundo Islands and along the coast south to Mbamba Bay, eastern Lake Malawi (Tanzania).
Sexual dimorphism:	Similar to other electra-like forms. Males develop blue coloration in breeding condition; females are more subdued in tone.
Feeding:	Opportunistic sand feeder attracted to stirred-up sediment created by sand-grubbing cichlids. Picks food particles from the substrate surface.
Breeding:	Maternal mouthbrooder with internal fertilization, following the spawning pattern typical of the electra species group.
Special notes:	Closely related to Placidochromis electra but completely lacks the broad black lachrymal stripe sometimes covering the cheek in P. electra. Considered a distinct species pending discovery of intermediate populations.