Scientific Name(s): Xenotilapia Spilopterus

Common Name(s): Spot-Fin xeno

Origin: Africa, Endemic to Lake Tanganyika.

Family: Cichidae

Species Type: Xenotilapia

Maximum Size: 3 to 3.5 Inches

Life Span: 8-12 Years

Natural Habitat: Rocky zones and rock, sand, rubble transition zones.

Diet: Animal based foods in the wild. Will accept meat flakes and sticks. Likes small portions of mysis, brine, larvaes, blood worms etc.

Temperature: 77-82 Degrees

PH: 7 Medium hard water

Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallon

Tank Region: Mid to lower

Temperament: Very peaceful, la ittle aggressive during spawning.

Possible Tank Mates: Shell Dwellers, Calvus, Buffalo heads, Lelupi, Juliodichromis, etc.

Filtration and Setup: A sandy rocky bottom is preferred. Rocks , Driftwood and plants in back of tank. Any mechanical hang on back filter will do fine. Sponge filters or canister are also great.

Coloration: Silver in color with yellowish hues on fins. Black dots on the dorsal fin. Blue speckles on the sides. Large eyes with yellowish orange ring.

Breeding: Mouthbrooder, lays eggs on rocks and sand without digging of a pit. Both the male and female incubate the eggs. Both parents also care for the fry when young.