Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

They have a very placid temperament, making them one of the most peaceful cichlids available. They only show aggression when actively guarding eggs or fry. They are an excellent choice for a large, peaceful community aquarium.

Diet

Omnivore

They are unfussy omnivores that readily accept most prepared foods. A diet consisting of high-quality cichlid pellets, frozen bloodworms, and krill is ideal. Supplementing with vegetable matter ensures healthy digestion and color enhancement.

Sex ratio

Pair

Keeping them in male-female pairs is generally the best approach. A group of juveniles can be purchased to allow natural pairs to form over time. Keeping multiple males may require a large footprint to prevent mild territorial squabbles.

Feeding frequency

Twice daily

Adults should be fed one to two times daily with appropriately sized portions. Be careful not to overfeed, as they have hearty appetites and will eat until gorged. Removing any leftover food will prevent water degradation.

Bioload

This robust cichlid produces a moderate bioload. They require excellent filtration to maintain low nitrate levels. Regular, sizable water changes are crucial to their long-term health and vibrant coloration.

Flow

Stagnant

They prefer moderate water flow that provides adequate oxygenation without excessive turbulence. The environment should mimic the slightly flowing rivers of the Xingu basin. Gentle surface agitation is highly beneficial.

Reproduction

Oviparous

They are biparental open-substrate spawners that usually lay eggs on flat rocks. The parents are excellent caregivers and will fiercely protect their fry from intruders. Providing flat stones and stable water parameters will encourage breeding.

Compatibility & tankmates

They are a peaceful species that does remarkably well in a South American community tank. They mix well with Geophagus, large tetras, and peaceful catfish. Aggressive or hyperactive tankmates should be avoided to prevent them from becoming withdrawn.

Tank level

Middle/Bottom

They generally inhabit the lower to middle levels of the aquarium. They enjoy sifting the substrate occasionally and hanging around driftwood structures. They are active swimmers but stay close to cover.