Xenotilapia papilio

Xenotilapia papilio earns its common name from the striking blue and yellow nuptial colouration that breeding males develop. Originating from sandy areas of Lake Tanganyika, it is among the more colourful Xenotilapia and is relatively available from specialist breeders.

The species is a classic biparental mouthbrooder: males court females at sand-pit spawning sites and both parents take turns orally incubating the clutch. This intricate behaviour can be observed in detail in a well-designed sand-biotope aquarium.

X. papilio is an excellent community fish for peaceful Tanganyika setups and is considered one of the best Xenotilapia species for hobbyists new to the genus.

Water: 24–27°C, pH 7.8–9.0, GH 8–16, KH 6–14; fine sand substrate; moderate water flow. Tank: 200 L minimum; open sandy floor at least 50% of footprint; few rocks as boundary markers. Feeding: Fine sinking pellets; frozen Mysis and Daphnia; occasional live Artemia enhances colouration. Breeding: Biparental mouthbrooder; male constructs pit; male and female alternate holding clutch. Compatibility: Excellent community fish; peaceful with most Tanganyika species except large predators.