Theraps wesseli Care Guide
Theraps wesseli, now placed in Chortiheros, is a rheophilic Honduran cichlid from fast-flowing Caribbean-slope rivers.
Overview
Theraps wesseli, currently placed in the genus Chortiheros, is a cichlid endemic to fast-flowing waters of the Caribbean slope of northern Honduras, including the Papaloteca, Cangrejal and Danto rivers. It is a stream-dwelling species with a slender, elongated body and dark vertical markings.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Theraps
- Scientific name: Theraps wesseli
- Common synonyms: Chortiheros wesseli
Habitat
It lives in the fastest currents of clear streams. Reported field conditions include water of roughly 25 °C, a pH near 7.8 and relatively soft water, with strong flow over the species' range in northern Honduras.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 350 L
- Temperature: 22-27 °C (72-81 °F)
- pH: 7.0-8.0
- GH: 8-18 °dGH
- Water flow: strong
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
Diet
It is treated as an omnivore. As a rheophilic stream cichlid it accepts a varied diet in captivity; substantial water movement and clean, oxygen-rich water are more important than any single food type.
Compatibility
It is semi-aggressive, particularly during breeding, and is best housed singly, in pairs, or with robust, similarly sized companions. Ample hiding spots allow subordinate fish to retreat.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Vulnerable, assessed in 2020.