Pearlscale Cichlid Care Guide
Herichthys carpintis is a Mexican cichlid with pearl-blue scale spotting, native to the Panuco and Soto la Marina drainages, aggressive and territorial.
Overview
Herichthys carpintis is a Central American cichlid described by Jordan and Snyder in 1899. FishBase lists a standard length up to 17 cm. It is noted for bright pearl-blue spotting across the scales. Like other Herichthys it is an aggressive, territorial substrate spawner.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Herichthys
- Scientific name: Herichthys carpintis
- Authority: Jordan & Snyder, 1899
Habitat
The species is native to the Atlantic slope of Mexico, in the Panuco River drainage and the Soto la Marina River. It is a freshwater, benthopelagic fish that occurs in both fast-flowing rivers and still waters.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 400 L
- Temperature: 23-28 °C (73-82 °F)
- pH: 7.0-8.0
- GH: 9-18 °dGH
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
- Provide open swimming space with rock cover
Diet
Herichthys carpintis is an omnivore, placed by FishBase at a trophic level of about 3.4. In the aquarium it accepts a varied diet of quality prepared foods together with meaty and vegetable items.
Compatibility
The species is aggressive and territorial, especially when breeding. It is best kept with other large, robust Central American cichlids or large plecos and should not be combined with small fishes. It will dig and uproot plants, so a hardscape-based layout is preferable.
Breeding
It is a biparental substrate spawner. FishBase notes that both parents tend the clutch, the female caring for the eggs while the male defends the territory.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2018).