Xenotilapia ochrogenys
Xenotilapia ochrogenys
A fascinating sand-sifting cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika. They require a large-footprint tank with fine sand, which they constantly sift through their gills to extract benthic invertebrates. They are easily startled and are notorious jumpers, so a tight-fitting lid is essential. Because of their harem-breeding dynamics, they must be kept in groups.
Xenotilapia ochrogenys At a Glance
Xenotilapia ochrogenys Tank Requirements
Will Xenotilapia ochrogenys fit in your tank?
Care guides tell you what Xenotilapia ochrogenys needs, the next question is whether your tank can safely provide it. Test Xenotilapia ochrogenys against your tank size, maintenance needs, and the fish you already keep before you buy.
Xenotilapia ochrogenys Water Parameters
Xenotilapia ochrogenys Temperament & Compatibility
Xenotilapia ochrogenys Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Male
Males develop intense iridescent coloring on their flanks and lips. They are highly territorial toward other males and will excavate circular sand bowers to attract females. Best kept as a single male per tank unless the aquarium is exceptionally large (150cm+).
Differs in 3 traits from base species
Also known as: Dominant Male, Colored
Female
Females and subdominant males remain mostly silvery with muted patterns. They are peaceful, act as maternal mouthbrooders, and should be kept in a group of 3-5 females per dominant male to spread courtship aggression.
Differs in 3 traits from base species
Also known as: Silvery, Harem, Subdominant
Xenotilapia ochrogenys Care Guide Summary
The Xenotilapia ochrogenys, scientifically known as Xenotilapia ochrogenys, belongs to the Cichlids - African family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 11 cm and have a fusiform body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as mostly peaceful, this species primarily occupies the bottom zone of the aquarium and produces a medium level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Xenotilapia ochrogenys requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 200 litres and a tank length of at least 120 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 24°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 8–9 and a general hardness of 10–25 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
The Xenotilapia ochrogenys is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. This species is available in 2 varieties: Male and Female. Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Xenotilapia ochrogenys Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Xenotilapia ochrogenys, a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the bottom zone, the aquarium layout should prioritise sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include a sand substrate to accommodate their sifting behaviour and smooth gravel or rounded substrate to protect their sensitive barbels. Keepers should note that a tight-fitting lid is essential, as this species is a known jumper and expect substrate disturbance, so lightweight décor should be secured.
Xenotilapia ochrogenys Compatibility Notes
Classified as mostly peaceful, the Xenotilapia ochrogenys is a social species that requires the company of its own kind to thrive. When choosing tankmates, their energetic swimming style may stress more sedentary or timid species. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the bottom zone can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Who Xenotilapia ochrogenys Is Actually For
Xenotilapia ochrogenys is best for a fishkeeper who wants a species that can settle into a calmer community setup and can provide a keeper who can commit to a proper group of at least 4. It makes the most sense for a hobbyist who will actually build around its needs, especially sand.
The most common mistake is treating Xenotilapia ochrogenys like any other community fish and skipping the soft sand it needs to forage safely. Another frequent problem is underestimating its social needs. A token pair or trio often behaves very differently from a real group.
Xenotilapia ochrogenys Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Xenotilapia ochrogenys.
75 Gallon Standard
90 Gallon Standard
125 Gallon Standard
150 Gallon High
180 Gallon Standard
240 Liter (120cm Standard)
Frequently Asked Questions About Xenotilapia ochrogenys
How big does Xenotilapia ochrogenys get?
Xenotilapia ochrogenys (Xenotilapia ochrogenys) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 11 cm. They have a fusiform body shape and a moderate growth rate.
What tank size does Xenotilapia ochrogenys need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 200 litres and a tank length of at least 120 cm are recommended for Xenotilapia ochrogenys. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Xenotilapia ochrogenys need?
Xenotilapia ochrogenys thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 24–28°C, a pH between 8 and 9, and a general hardness of 10–25 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Is Xenotilapia ochrogenys peaceful or aggressive?
Xenotilapia ochrogenys is classified as mostly peaceful with an aggression score of 4 out of 10. They are generally well-suited to peaceful community tanks.
Can Xenotilapia ochrogenys live alone?
No, Xenotilapia ochrogenys should be kept in groups of at least 4 to reduce stress and encourage natural behaviour.
Does Xenotilapia ochrogenys have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Xenotilapia ochrogenys benefits from sand (sifters) and smooth gravel (sensitive barbels) in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Does Xenotilapia ochrogenys need a lid on the tank?
Yes. Xenotilapia ochrogenys is a known jumper, and a tight-fitting lid or cover is essential to prevent escape. Even a small gap can be enough for a determined fish to leap out.
Useful setup supplies
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Guidarium Editorial Desk
Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.
- Last reviewed
- May 11, 2026
- Last updated
- May 11, 2026
- Issues or corrections?
- Contact the editorial team
Top Tank Mates for Xenotilapia ochrogenys
These fish are strong compatibility matches for Xenotilapia ochrogenys based on water preferences, temperament, adult size, and tank behavior.
Waigeo Rainbowfish
Melanotaenia catherinae
Ideal Tank MatesSilver Rainbowfish
Chilatherina crassispinosa
Ideal Tank MatesRed Eye Tetra
Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae
Ideal Tank MatesParkinson's Rainbowfish
Melanotaenia parkinsoni
Ideal Tank MatesMadagascar Rainbowfish
Bedotia madagascariensis
Ideal Tank MatesLake Wanam Rainbowfish
Glossolepis wanamensis
Ideal Tank MatesPlants That Suit Xenotilapia ochrogenys
These plants pair well with Xenotilapia ochrogenys based on shared water preferences, layout fit, and how likely they are to hold up in the same aquarium.
Afzel's Anubias
Anubias afzelii
Anubias Barteri
Anubias barteri
Congo Anubias
Anubias heterophylla
Gillet's Anubias
Anubias gilletii
Java Fern
Leptochilus pteropus
Java Moss
Taxiphyllum barbieri
Fish Similar to Xenotilapia ochrogenys
Yellow Sand Cichlid
Xenotilapia bathyphilus
An elegant, bottom-dwelling cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika. They are highly specialized 'sand-sifters' that take mouthfuls of sand to filter out small invertebrates. They are relatively peaceful for African cichlids but can be territorial during breeding. They are highly skittish and do best in small shoals. A fine sand substrate is absolutely mandatory for their survival and natural behavior.
Xenotilapia papilio
Xenotilapia papilio
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Cyprichromis leptosoma
A unique, pelagic (open-water) schooling cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika. Unlike rock-dwelling African cichlids, 'Cyps' live in massive shoals in the open water column where males display to females in spectacular 3D territories. They require very hard, alkaline water and a long tank (minimum 4 feet / 120cm) to accommodate their active swimming behavior.
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