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.
Where does the Blackcheek xenotilapia live?
The Blackcheek xenotilapia lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
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.
Is the Blackcheek xenotilapia edible?
The Blackcheek xenotilapia is rarely eaten.
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Status & sources
Same genus Xenotilapia
More from the family Cichlidae
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