The Cichlid Fishes of Lake Malawi (document)

The Cichlid fishes of Lake Malawi are a diverse group of over a thousand species, renowned for their vibrant colors and specialized behaviors. These freshwater fish have evolved to occupy a wide range of ecological niches in the lake’s rocky and sandy habitats. Their remarkable diversity results from rapid speciation, driven by adaptations such as different feeding strategies and breeding styles. This diversity makes Lake Malawi one of the most important and studied freshwater ecosystems, highlighting evolutionary processes and offering insights into conservation of unique aquatic biodiversity.