Remarks: Xenotilapia flavipinnis are beautiful sand-dwelling cichlids from Lake Tanganyika. Xenotilapia spp. are rather difficult to keep in the aquarium as they are sensitive to poor water conditions and can be very territorial. They require long tanks with a large surface area. They will prefer a section of clear sand, but also require rocky structures to seek refuge in.

Pairs will defend a rock or dug out pit as a territory. Parents care for the fry by mouthbrooding – females carry the eggs before turning the newly hatched fry over to the male. Clutches are small – usually fewer than 15 eggs are dropped.

Due to the sensitive nature of these fish, DOA claims will only be honored if the fish are in their sealed bags. No exceptions will be made for losses that occur after opening the bags.

Scientific Name: Xenotilapia flavipinnis

Common Name: Mabilibili

Max Size: 4″

pH: 7.5-8.6

Hardness: Hard

Temperature: 70-82

Aggressiveness: Aggressive

Region of Origin: Lake Tanganyika, Africa

Captive Bred or Wild: F1

Diet: Frozen meats and vegetarian flake.

Compatibility: Cyprichromis, rock-dwelling Tanganyikan cichlids

Tank Mate Options:

• Cyprichromis leptosoma “Kerenge“
• Julidochromis ornatus