Pale and Dark Dichromatism Related to Microhabitats in a Herbivorous Tanganyikan Cichlid Fish, Telmatochromis temporalis

摘要: Dichromatism and habitat utilization of a small herbivorous cichlid fish,Telmatochromis temporalis, were studied in littoral rocky area Lake Tanganyika. Individuals both sexes had either pale or dark body coloration that did not change for long periods. Both defended territories from consexuals, male harem several females. Pale fish exposed areas shaded ones. Larger dominant over smaller consexuals occupied well-illuminated areas. When kept with lighted backgrounds, respectively, they changed colour within few weeks. ones areas, cryptic. BecauseTelmatochromis temporalis are very vulnerable prey coastal dichromatism may function as antipredator camouflage.