Xenotilapia (Sand Cichlid) Care Guide

Xenotilapia (Sand Cichlid) (Xenotilapia ochrogenys) is an advanced-level freshwater fish that needs at least 75 gallons and 74-80°F. A graceful sand-sifting Tanganyikan cichlid that picks food from the sand and hovers in a group. It needs a fine sand bed, hard alkaline water and calm company; sharp gravel and aggressive fish do not suit it. Sold under several species names, so ranges here are general for the group.

Care facts at a glance

Quick tips

• Use fine sand, not gravel.
• Keep a group of six or more with peaceful tankmates.
• Keep water hard, alkaline and very clean.

San Diego water

Naturally suited to San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water once it is dechlorinated (the city uses chloramine, so use a conditioner that handles it). Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.

Before you buy

Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.