Wolf Cichlid
Parachromis dovii
Cichlidae
About
The wolf cichlid is one of the largest and most formidable Central American cichlids, ranging from Honduras to Costa Rica on both Atlantic and Pacific slopes. Males can approach 70 cm and behave as apex ambush predators, hunting fish and invertebrates across the water column. Ferociously territorial and intolerant of tankmates, it is strictly a specialist's fish for an enormous species or bonded-pair system.
Care
Only for expert keepers with an enormous, heavily filtered tank of at least 1000 litres and a long footprint. Keep single or as one carefully monitored bonded pair; expect intense aggression, heavy digging and a very high bioload. Sand substrate, secure lid and robust hardscape only.
Diet
Obligate predator that ambushes fish and large invertebrates; feed quality carnivore pellets plus frozen prawn, mussel and earthworms, and skip live feeders to avoid disease.
Tankmate compatibility
Avoid (271)
Computed by the AquaSage engine for a spacious reference tank — always check the full verdict for your exact setup in the calculator.
Telling males from females
What works for this species, most reliable first.
- Extended finsStrong · from about 8 months, and later in a suppressed male
On many cichlids and killifish the male's dorsal and anal fins draw out into trailing points as he matures, while the female's stay rounded.
- VentingA hint only · only on a mature fish, easiest when she is in breeding condition
The method breeders use when the answer has to be right. Hold the fish upside down in a wet hand or soft net and look at the two openings ahead of the anal fin. The forward one is the anus; the one behind it is what you are reading.
- Adult sizeA hint only · only across animals of the same age
In many cichlids, catfish and loaches one sex simply grows larger — usually the male, though there are well-known reversals.
Frequently asked questions
- What tank size does a Wolf Cichlid need?
- A Wolf Cichlid needs an aquarium of at least 1000 litres (264.2 US gallons) with a footprint at least 180 cm (70.9 in) long — for this species, swimming length matters as much as raw volume.
- What water parameters does a Wolf Cichlid need?
- Wolf Cichlid does best at 22–30 °C (71.6–86 °F), pH 7–8.5 and a general hardness of 5–20 °dGH.
- Is the Wolf Cichlid suitable for beginners?
- Wolf Cichlid is a demanding species best attempted with some experience — it needs stable, closely watched conditions to thrive.