Texas Cichlid
Herichthys cyanoguttatus
Cichlidae
About
The Texas cichlid is the only cichlid native to the United States, ranging through the lower Rio Grande drainage of Texas and northeastern Mexico. A robust, pearl-speckled fish reaching around 30 cm, it is exceptionally hardy and tolerates cool subtropical water that would stress most tropical cichlids. It is also intensely aggressive and territorial, digs relentlessly and uproots plants, so it demands a large tank and carefully chosen, similarly sturdy tankmates.
Care
House singly or as a bonded pair in a large tank of at least 120 cm base (around 300 L) with sand substrate, robust rockwork and strong filtration. Expect heavy digging, so avoid rooted plants and secure all decor. Keep only with large, non-timid tankmates and use a tight lid.
Diet
Opportunistic omnivore that eats insects, larvae, snails, small fish and plant matter in the wild. Staple on a quality cichlid pellet with frozen and live meaty foods plus some greens, and control portions to manage its heavy bioload.
Tankmate compatibility
Possible with care (50)
Avoid (71)
Computed by the AquaSage engine for a spacious reference tank — always check the full verdict for your exact setup in the calculator.