Texas Cichlid

Looks how to spot one

Large, deep-bodied cichlid

A robust cichlid dotted all over with rows of small pearly turquoise and cream spots on a darker body, with an iridescent blue-green sheen. Mature males develop a forehead hump, and breeding fish turn pale grey on the front half for a striking contrast.32

Personality what they are like

Confident and strongly territorial, particularly males in smaller tanks; best with large, sturdy companions or on its own.23

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A constant digger that rearranges sand and gravel, and an alert, intelligent hunter.23

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Powerful filtration, good oxygenation and weekly water changes of around a quarter to a half; avoid rooted plants and undergravel filters.2

Home where they are happiest

At least about 120 x 45 x 45 cm (around 255 litres) for one fish, much larger for a pair; 5 to 8 cm of sand or fine gravel, smooth rocks, wood and clay pots. Water about 20 to 28 C (cooler end of its natural 20 to 33 C range), pH roughly 6.0 to 7.5, moderately soft to medium hardness.213

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Omnivore: quality pellets as a base with frozen or live foods plus vegetables such as blanched spinach or peas.21

Company who they like around

Forms monogamous pairs, usually a larger male with a smaller female; raising six or more youngsters together lets a pair form naturally.23

The story where it all began

Baird and Girard described the Texas cichlid in 1854 from the Rio Grande. It is the only cichlid whose natural range includes the United States, and it became a well-known aquarium fish in the 1980s.123

Recognised by the official bits

IUCN Red List

Least Concern (assessed 18 October 2018)1

Taxonomy

Described by Baird and Girard in 1854; formerly in Cichlasoma, now in Herichthys3