Texas Cichlid (Herichthys cyanoguttatus) Care Guide

The only cichlid species native to the United States, featuring a dark body covered with iridescent blue-green spangles. Can be highly aggressive, especially during breeding.

Overview

Herichthys cyanoguttatus is a species in the family Cichlidae. The only cichlid species native to the United States, featuring a dark body covered with iridescent blue-green spangles. Can be highly aggressive, especially during breeding. A robust fish that does well in cooler temperatures than most cichlids.

Taxonomy

• Family: Cichlidae
• Genus: Herichthys
• Scientific name: Herichthys cyanoguttatus
• Other names: Rio Grande Cichlid
• Origin: North America, United States, Mexico

Habitat

Native to the lower Rio Grande drainage of southern Texas and north-eastern Mexico — the only cichlid native to the United States. Inhabits slow streams, oxbows and reservoirs with submerged vegetation and a fine substrate. Tolerates a broad range of temperatures and water chemistry.

Tank requirements

• Minimum tank volume: 300 L
• Temperature: 20-28 °C
• pH: 6.5-8
• GH: 8-25 °dGH
• Water flow: moderate
• Adult size: 20-30 cm
• Lifespan: 10-15 years
• Difficulty: intermediate

Diet

Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

• Temperament: aggressive
• Swimming level: middle
• Compatible tank mates: Oscar, Jack Dempsey, Firemouth Cichlid, Large Pleco
• Avoid with: Small Fish, Shrimp, Peaceful Community Fish

Breeding

• Breeding strategy: substrate-spawner
• Breeding difficulty: intermediate