Fin's Fish Guide
The Yellowcheek xenotilapia (Xenotilapia ochrogenys) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
Xenotilapia ochrogenys is a cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species lives over sandy bottoms, where it occurs in schools and sifts the sand with its mouth in search of small invertebrates. It reaches about 11 cm and has a streamlined body, often with a yellowish marking on the cheeks. Like many Tanganyika cichlids the species is a mouthbrooder: the female broods the eggs and young in the mouth. The fish is prized by specialist cichlid keepers and is fished locally.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Yellowcheek xenotilapia?
The Yellowcheek xenotilapia has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Sand-sifting mouthbrooder with yellowish cheek markings; lives in shoals above sand.
Where does the Yellowcheek xenotilapia live?
The Yellowcheek xenotilapia lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa.
How big does the Yellowcheek xenotilapia get?
The Yellowcheek xenotilapia grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Yellowcheek xenotilapia dangerous to humans?
No, the Yellowcheek 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 Yellowcheek xenotilapia edible?
Yes, the Yellowcheek xenotilapia is commonly 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 Yellowcheek xenotilapia?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yellowcheek xenotilapia is one of 12,519 species in the app.