Pungu


The pungu is a species of cichlid endemic to Lake Barombi Mbo in Cameroon where it prefers shallow waters of about in depth. It feeds on invertebrates, sponges, diatoms and macrophytes. This species can reach a length of SL. It is currently the only known member of its genus, but it is very close to Sarotherodon. The pungu is threatened because of pollution and sedimentation from human activities. Konia, Myaka and Stomatepia are three other equally threatened genera of cichlids that also are endemic to Lake Barombi Mbo. The specific name of this fish honours the Fisheries Development Officer of Nigeria, P.I.R. MacLaren, who used his position to collect specimens of fishes, including the type of this species.