Xenotilapia nasus

Xenotilapia nasus ('nasus' meaning nose) is named for its distinctly elongated snout, a physical adaptation for precision probing of fine sandy substrate to extract buried invertebrates. This species is more slender and elongated than many of its congeners and inhabits the open sandy zones of Lake Tanganyika.

As a biparental mouthbrooder, X. nasus exhibits the fascinating alternating incubation behaviour characteristic of the genus. Groups of six or more are recommended to allow natural social and reproductive behaviour to unfold.

X. nasus fits naturally into a dedicated sand-biotope Tanganyika aquarium alongside other Xenotilapia, Enantiopus, or Cyathopharynx. Its elongated snout and graceful body make it a distinctive and attractive member of any Tanganyika sand-floor community.

Water: 24–27°C, pH 7.8–9.0, GH 8–16, KH 6–14; fine sand substrate of 5+ cm depth. Tank: 200 L minimum; large open sandy floor; minimal rock décor; gentle non-sand-disturbing filtration. Feeding: Fine sinking pellets; frozen Mysis, Daphnia, and Artemia; varied diet prevents nutritional deficiency. Breeding: Biparental mouthbrooder; both parents alternate holding; fry released after 3–4 weeks. Compatibility: Peaceful; ideal with all peaceful Tanganyika sand-floor and open-water species.