Xenotilapia spilopterus Tanganyika Sand Cichlid
Xenotilapia spilopterus
Origin: Lake Tanganyika
Water Parameters
Quick Stats
- Max Size
- 10 cm
- Min Tank
- 250 L
- Lifespan
- 6
- Swimming Level
- bottom
- Schooling
- Yes (10–20+)
- Diet
- omnivore
- Temperament
- Peaceful; shoaling behaviour.
About
Xenotilapia spilopterus is a substrate-sifting, shoaling cichlid from the sandy littoral zones of Lake Tanganyika. It forms spectacular schools in nature, diving into the sand when alarmed. The iridescent blue-green flanks and graceful movement make it a standout biotope fish. It requires very clean, well-oxygenated water and prefers fine sand substrate to sift for food. Best kept in groups of 10+ in species or Tanganyika community tanks.
Care Guide
pH 8.0–8.5. Fine sand substrate. Group of 10+. Highly sensitive to poor water quality. Feed: fine dry foods, live artemia, cyclops.
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