Fin's Fish Guide
The Blacklip xenotilapia (Xenotilapia nigrolabiata) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The blacklip xenotilapia is a cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 13 cm and has a slender, pale body with a conspicuously dark-coloured upper lip, to which the name refers. It lives over sandy bottoms and forms schools. As a bottom searcher it sifts small invertebrates and growth from the sand. It is a maternal mouthbrooder: only the female carries the eggs and young in her mouth (other species in this genus show biparental care). The species is popular with advanced aquarists and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blacklip xenotilapia?
The Blacklip xenotilapia has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Strikingly dark upper lip; schooling, maternal mouthbrooder of sandy bottoms.
Where does the Blacklip xenotilapia live?
The Blacklip 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 Blacklip xenotilapia get?
The Blacklip xenotilapia grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Blacklip xenotilapia dangerous to humans?
No, the Blacklip xenotilapia is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blacklip xenotilapia edible?
The Blacklip 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 Blacklip xenotilapia?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blacklip xenotilapia is one of 12,519 species in the app.