Mayan Cichlid Care Guide
Cichlasoma urophthalmus, the Mayan cichlid, is a hardy euryhaline cichlid from Atlantic-slope waters of Mexico to Nicaragua.
Overview
Cichlasoma urophthalmus, the Mayan cichlid or Mexican mojarra, is a hardy and adaptable Central American cichlid. FishBase reports its native range across Atlantic drainages from Mexico to Nicaragua. It is also known under the genus Mayaheros in recent literature, and is notable for its broad tolerance of salinity.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Cichlasoma
- Scientific name: Cichlasoma urophthalmus
- Common synonyms: Mayaheros urophthalmus
Habitat
The species occupies fresh and brackish waters and is benthopelagic. It is a euryhaline fish able to survive across a wide salinity range, and inhabits marshes, mangrove swamps, lakes, rivers, lagoons and estuaries. Adults favour coastal lagoons and rivers.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 400 L
- Temperature: 24-30 °C (75-86 °F)
- pH: 7.0-8.5
- GH: 10-22 °dGH
- Maximum size: about 39 cm TL
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
Diet
It is a dietary generalist. FishBase lists small fishes and macro-invertebrates, and field studies record plant matter, algae, detritus, snails, crustaceans and insects. It requires substantial animal matter to remain in good condition.
Compatibility
The Mayan cichlid is territorial and aggressive, especially when breeding, and highly protective of offspring. Suitable companions are robust tank mates of comparable size; small fish and plants should be avoided.
Breeding
It is a monogamous biparental substrate spawner producing several broods per year, with fry protection lasting up to about six weeks. Sexual dimorphism is minimal.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern, assessed in 2018. The species has established nonindigenous populations in South Florida.