The generic classification of the haplochromine cichlids of Lake Victoria, East Africa

In chronologic order of publication, all papers dealing with the systematics of haplochromine cichlids of Lake Victoria are analysed with regard to the generic classification of the species. Taxonomists have disputed and changed the generic classification soon after cichlids from Lake Victoria were first described. At the turn of the century, different opinions among taxonomists working on Lake Victoria haplochromines were mainly based on the fact that they studied different material. The study of more extensive collections yielded the impression that differences between the species are gradual, rendering the delimitation of genera problematic. Recently, an attempt to use cladistic methods for the unravelling of the phylogeny of the haplochromines has resulted in a generic classification which most alpha-taxonomists working on the Lake Victoria super flock consider unworkable. Pending a more clear phylogenetic picture, a new definition of the genus Haplochromis is proposed in order to create at least temporary nomenclatoral stability.