Arrow Cichlid (Amphilophus zaliosus) Care Guide
Amphilophus zaliosus is a slender, elongate cichlid endemic to Lake Apoyo in Nicaragua and rated Critically Endangered by the IUCN.
Overview
Amphilophus zaliosus, the Arrow cichlid, was described by Barlow in 1976 and belongs to the Midas cichlid species complex. It has a distinctly elongate, slender body and a silver to greenish-grey ground colour that lacks the yellow seen in some relatives; breeding individuals can turn almost entirely black.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Amphilophus
- Scientific name: Amphilophus zaliosus
- Describer: Barlow, 1976
- Member of the Midas cichlid species complex
Habitat
The species is endemic to Lake Apoyo, a crater lake in Nicaragua, which it shares with several other Amphilophus species. Research suggests this group evolved within the lake through sympatric speciation.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 350 L
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 7.5-8.5
- GH: 10-20 °dGH
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
Diet
The record classifies Amphilophus zaliosus as a carnivore. Its elongate body shape is associated with a more open-water, pelagic foraging style within Lake Apoyo. In the aquarium it should be offered varied meaty and prepared foods.
Compatibility
It is a semi-aggressive, territorial cichlid best housed with similarly sized Central American species in a spacious tank, avoiding small or delicate fish.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered. It is the only endemic Lake Apoyo cichlid so far formally evaluated, and likely has a smaller population than several related species in the same lake.