Placidochromis polli (Burgess & Axelrod)
Text & photo by Guest Author: Prof. George F. Turner, Bangor University, UK

The photo above shows another of the barred benthic haplochromines originally placed in the genus Lethrinops. However, it was transferred to the genus Placidochromis by Hanssens (2004). This species has a long pointed snout, and a small terminal mouth. It is more slender than Lethrinops christyi (which remains in Lethrinops). Ripe males seem to be generally brownish with 7 prominent dark bars under the dorsal fin. The snout has a bluish sheen. However, this may not be the full breeding dress. The species attains at least 19 cm (7½ inches) TL (total length, including caudal fin). The species is common in the southern arms at depths of 45 to at least 128m (150-420 feet), and is generally more common in deeper water.

	Suggested citation of this page: Turner, G.F. (2004) Placidochromis polli. http://malawicichlids.com/mw08125.htm. In: "The Cichlid Fishes of Lake Malawi, Africa" (M.K. Oliver, webmaster), http://malawicichlids.com. Accessed [date].
	Last revised: 3 December 2004 Page first posted: 31 May 2004 Web Author: M. K. Oliver, Ph.D. Copyright © 1997-2021 by M. K. Oliver, Ph.D. - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED