Deep-Water Xenotilapia (Xenotilapia bathyphila) Care Guide
Xenotilapia bathyphila is a cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika. This guide covers its tank requirements, diet, behaviour and breeding.
Overview
Xenotilapia bathyphila is a cichlid (family Cichlidae) endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. FishBase gives a maximum of about 10.3 cm total length. It is a sand-associated feeder that takes copepods and small shrimps and forms schools over sandy bottoms.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Scientific name: Xenotilapia bathyphila
- Described by: Poll, 1956
The genus Xenotilapia is endemic to Lake Tanganyika and was erected by Boulenger in 1899.
Habitat
Endemic to Lake Tanganyika, occurring over sandy substrates.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 350 L (92 gal)
- Adult size: 11-14 cm
- Temperature: 24-27 °C (75-81 °F)
- pH: 8.5-9.2 (hard, alkaline rift-lake water)
- GH: 12-25 °dGH
- Recommended group size: 6+ individuals
- Lifespan: 6-10 years
Diet
It is a sand-associated feeder that takes copepods and small shrimps and forms schools over sandy bottoms.
Compatibility
Xenotilapia bathyphila is a peaceful species that occupies the bottom water layer. In a dedicated Lake Tanganyika community it is typically kept with Cyprichromis, Cyphotilapia. Avoid combining it with Mbuna, Tropheus.
Breeding
It is a mouthbrooder, in keeping with the genus Xenotilapia.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2006).