Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackcheek xenotilapia (Xenotilapia melanogenys) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
Xenotilapia melanogenys is a cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species has a streamlined, silvery body, often with a dark cheek marking, and reaches about 15 cm. It is a common sand-dweller that forages in large schools over the sandy bottom, to about 40 metres deep; during breeding the fish move to much shallower water. With its mouth it sifts the sand in search of small invertebrates. Like many Tanganyika cichlids the species is a mouthbrooder, in which the female protects the eggs and young in her mouth. It is prized by specialist cichlid keepers.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackcheek xenotilapia?
The Blackcheek xenotilapia has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Sand-sifting mouthbrooder that forages over the sandy bottom in large shoals.
Where does the Blackcheek xenotilapia live?
The Blackcheek xenotilapia lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa.
How big does the Blackcheek xenotilapia get?
The Blackcheek xenotilapia grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Blackcheek xenotilapia dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackcheek xenotilapia is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Blackcheek xenotilapia edible?
The Blackcheek xenotilapia is rarely 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 Blackcheek xenotilapia?
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