Fin's Fish Guide
The Bandtail xenotilapia (Xenotilapia caudafasciata) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
The bandtail xenotilapia is a small cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a slender, pearly body with dark bars on the tail, to which the name refers. It lives over sandy bottoms of the lake and forms schools. With its mouth it takes mouthfuls of sand from which it sifts small invertebrates and organic matter. Notable is its biparental mouthbrooding: both parents take turns carrying the eggs and young in the mouth. The species is popular in the aquarium. Owing to its small size it is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bandtail xenotilapia?
The Bandtail xenotilapia has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Dark caudal bars; sand-sifting cichlid with biparental mouthbrooding care.
Where does the Bandtail xenotilapia live?
The Bandtail xenotilapia lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; sandy bottoms.
How big does the Bandtail xenotilapia get?
The Bandtail xenotilapia grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Bandtail xenotilapia dangerous to humans?
No, the Bandtail xenotilapia is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bandtail xenotilapia edible?
The Bandtail xenotilapia is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Xenotilapia
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Bandtail xenotilapia?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bandtail xenotilapia is one of 12,519 species in the app.