Haplochromini

Haplochromini is a tribe of cichlid fishes in the family Cichlidae, within the subfamily Pseudocrenilabrinae. It is one of the largest and most diverse lineages of African cichlids, with hundreds of described species distributed primarily in East Africa’s Great Lakes and their surrounding rivers, including Lakes Victoria, Malawi, and Tanganyika, as well as other freshwater systems on the continent.

Taxonomy and systematics: Haplochromini has long been a catchall for many haplochromine species, and the group has undergone substantial taxonomic revision. Molecular studies have clarified relationships within Pseudocrenilabrinae, leading to reassignments of numerous species from Haplochromis into other genera such as Pundamilia, Maylandia, Mbipia, Neochromis, and Astatotilapia. The exact circumscription of Haplochromini remains subject to ongoing revision as new data become available.

Ecology and evolution: Members of Haplochromini exhibit a wide range of feeding strategies and life histories. Many are mouthbrooders, with females carrying fertilized eggs and developing fry in the mouth, though breeding styles can vary among lineages. The tribe is notable for rapid speciation and adaptive radiations, especially within the African Great Lakes, where differences in coloration and patterning influence mate choice and contribute to reproductive isolation, fueling the emergence of diverse species flocks.

Conservation and human uses: Habitat degradation, pollution, and the introduction of non-native species threaten many haplochromines, particularly in Lake Victoria. Some species are kept in the aquarium trade, valued for their vivid colors and complex behaviors.

Overview: Haplochromini represents a major evolutionary and ecological component of African freshwater biodiversity, illustrating the dynamic interplay of lineage diversification, ecology, and human impact.