Many cichlids will dive into soft substrate (sand, mud) to escape predators, or just to hide. It is not trying to kill itself, and by digging him out, you are only adding stress.
I had a shoal of 6 large Fossorochromis rostratus that could disappear in a matter of seconds into the sand, whenever they felt threatened. The tank would go from busy to appearing empty.
I had a shoal of 6 large Fossorochromis rostratus that could disappear in a matter of seconds into the sand, whenever they felt threatened. The tank would go from busy to appearing empty.
