The Giant Cichlid (Boulengerochromis microlepis), also known as the Emperor Cichlid, is the largest cichlid species in the world, native exclusively to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. This impressive freshwater fish, reaching lengths up to 36 inches (90 cm), is prized both by local fisheries for food and by the aquarium trade for its striking appearance. The top countries involved in the harvesting of Giant Cichlids are Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Burundi, and Zambia, as these nations share the shores of Lake Tanganyika. In these countries, the fishing industry for Giant Cichlids is primarily artisanal, supporting local communities with both subsistence and commercial catch. While not a major export commodity compared to other fish species, the Giant Cichlid is significant regionally and is subject to local management efforts to ensure sustainable populations in the lake’s unique ecosystem.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Burundi | 40 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.