Wolf Cichlid Care Guide
Parachromis dovii is a large piscivorous cichlid from Central America that reaches 72 cm and requires a very large tank for an apex predator.
Overview
Parachromis dovii, the wolf cichlid or guapote, is a large predatory cichlid of the family Cichlidae from Central America. It is one of the largest Central American cichlids, reaching 72 cm in total length and a maximum published weight of 6.8 kg. It is an apex predator requiring very large aquariums.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Parachromis
- Scientific name: Parachromis dovii
Habitat
The species occurs on both slopes of Central America: on the Atlantic slope from the Aguan River in Honduras to the Moín River in Costa Rica, and on the Pacific slope from the Yeguare River in Honduras to the Bebedero River in Costa Rica. It is a freshwater demersal fish of lakes and river valleys, described as an avid cavern digger.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 1000 L
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 7.0-8.0
- GH: 8-18 °dGH
- Lifespan: 12-18 years
Diet
Parachromis dovii is piscivorous, feeding mainly on fish and also consuming crustaceans and insects in smaller quantities. In the aquarium it should receive a carnivorous diet of meaty foods appropriate to its size.
Compatibility
The wolf cichlid is highly aggressive and predatory. Because of its size and temperament it is difficult to house with other fish; most tankmates risk being eaten or attacked. It is generally kept alone or in a carefully managed pair in a very large tank.
Breeding
The species is a substrate spawner. According to FishBase it produces roughly 1,000-1,500 eggs and reaches sexual maturity at about 15 months and 20 cm in length. Males are reported to show altruism toward males of other species while tending the young.
Conservation status
According to FishBase, Parachromis dovii is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List (assessed 2019).