Yellow Sand Cichlid
📖 Overview
Yellow Sand Cichlid (Xenotilapia flavipinnis), first described by Poll, 1985 is a small fish in the family Cichlidae (order Cichliformes). Adults typically reach 9.20 cm in maximum length. It inhabits freshwater systems including rivers, streams, and lakes. It occurs in Tropical waters. It feeds on a mix of small fish and invertebrates as a mid-level predator. The species schools in loose to tight aggregations. On the IUCN Red List, it is classified as Least Concern.The species is important as a food fish, kept in the aquarium hobby, and considered a sustainable seafood option under current management. As a member of the Cichlidae, it shares life-history and morphological traits with its relatives in the group.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Physical description for Yellow Sand Cichlid is currently being compiled.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Yellow Sand Cichlid is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Freshwater; demersal; pH range: 8.0 - 9.0; dH range: 9 - 19. Tropical; 24°C - 27°C ; 3°S - 9°S Endemic to Lake Tanganyika.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Yellow Sand Cichlid is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Detailed nutritional data for Yellow Sand Cichlid is currently being compiled from USDA FoodData Central.
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Yellow Sand Cichlid has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔬 Full Nutritional Profile
Per 100g - Raw, per 100g - Source: USDA FoodData Central templates (generic fish average)
📊 Population Dynamics
| Year | Region | Index | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - |
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xenotilapia flavipinnus | Poll | 1985 | Synonym |
🦠 Common Diseases
The following diseases are known to affect Yellow Sand Cichlid.
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 30 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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