Spiloptera Sand Cichlid
Xenotilapia spiloptera
Also known as: Spiloptera Sand Cichlid, Spiloptera Xenotilapia
Origin: Lake Tanganyika, Africa
Water Parameters
Quick Stats
- Max Size
- 10 cm
- Min Tank
- 150 L
- Lifespan
- 6-10
- Swimming Level
- bottom
- Schooling
- Yes (6–15+)
- Diet
- omnivore
- Temperament
- peaceful; minimal aggression; ideal for mixed Tanganyika community
About
The Spiloptera Sand Cichlid is an attractive, slender Xenotilapia from the sandy shallows of Lake Tanganyika. It forages by sifting mouthfuls of sand for small invertebrates and organic particles. Both parents participate in mouthbrooding, passing fry between them, which is a remarkable and entertaining behaviour to observe in the aquarium.
Care Guide
Water: 24-27°C, pH 7.8-9.0, hard alkaline water; fine sand substrate mandatory. Tank: Minimum 150L; open sandy areas with minimal decoration; keep substrate deep enough for natural sifting. Feeding: Fine sinking pellets, frozen baby brine shrimp, cyclops, and mysis shrimp. Behaviour: Peaceful schooling sand cichlid; best kept in groups of 6+; biparental mouthbrooder. Compatibility: Compatible with other peaceful Tanganyika species such as Cyprichromis or Julidochromis.
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