Red-eye Krobia

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Rio Xingu basin (Brazil). Frequents lagoons or weak-current branches with clear waters (Clearwater) but rich in organic debris, submerged wood and patches of coastal vegetation.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Xingu Dolphin Cichlid / Red-Cheek Krobia (Krobia xinguensis). Species formally described only in 2012 (previously known as Krobia sp. "Xingu"). Typical Krobia genus body, but with a much more vivid coloration than its congeners.

Social Behavior: Peaceful and gregarious outside the breeding season. Like other Krobias, it is a very tolerant cichlid, does not dig destructively and rarely preys on fish longer than 2 cm (0.8 inches).

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Spectacular. The metallic green/gold body is crossed by seven weak vertical bands and a fragmented lateral line. The distinguishing feature are the "cheeks" (opercula) and the base of the lower fins which are tinged with bright red/orange, especially in dominant males. Larger male.

Aquarium Setup: Tank of at least 100 cm (40 inches). Ideal a bottom of sand mixed with fine gravel, polished rocks and intricate woods. Lighting must not be blinding; robust plants (Echinodorus) are much appreciated to provide visual barriers.

Diet and Feeding: Very adaptable omnivore. Hunts benthic invertebrates in nature. In the aquarium it accepts basic granular dry feeds, but the colors (especially reds) will only explode by regularly administering bloodworms, krill and brine shrimp.

Water Quality: Being a species from the Rio Xingu (warmer and clearer waters than Guyana), it appreciates medium-high temperatures (26-28°C / 79-82°F) and crystal clear, clean and well-oxygenated water, with pH close to neutrality.

Compatibility and Tankmates: One of the best cichlids for South American community aquariums. Perfect with Tetras of the genus Hemigrammus or Hyphessobrycon (as long as they are not tiny), Corydoras, and Loricariids of the Rio Xingu (e.g. Ancistrus, Baryancistrus).

Aquarium Reproduction: Substrate spawners. Very prolific. They choose a pre-cleaned smooth surface (rock or wood). Parental care is biparental and can last for weeks; in this phase aggression increases but locally to the den.

Risks and Diseases: Lack of coloration due to poor diet. If fed only on generic flakes, Krobia xinguensis will never develop the iconic red cheeks and will appear as "dull Aequidens".