Cichlid
Central American cichlids
Jack Dempsey, convicts, firemouths, green terrors, wolf cichlids and other New World bruisers. Hard water, caves, and honest adult size.
Jack Dempsey, convicts, firemouths, green terrors, wolf cichlids and other New World bruisers. Hard water, caves, and honest adult size.
Jack Dempsey
Aggressive and territorial, more so when breeding
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Firemouth Cichlid
Mild for a Central American cichlid
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Redhead Cichlid
Territorial and aggressive, especially when breeding
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Convict Cichlid
Aggressive and territorial, and very violent when breeding
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Salvini Cichlid
Aggressive for its size and very territorial
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Midas Cichlid
One of the most belligerent cichlids, toward other fish and its own kind
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Red Devil Cichlid
One of the most aggressive cichlids, toward other fish and its own kind
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Texas Cichlid
Highly belligerent and territorial, especially in tanks under 6 feet long
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Pearlscale Cichlid
Territorial and aggressive, more so when breeding
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Rainbow Cichlid
A peaceful cichlid, especially by Central American standards
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Jaguar Cichlid
A predator that sees smaller fish as food
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Nicaraguan Cichlid
Relatively peaceful for a Central American cichlid of its size, but still territorial
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Mayan Cichlid
Territorial and fairly aggressive
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Wolf Cichlid (Dovii)
One of the most aggressive cichlids kept in aquariums
Open guideQuick keep notes
Water
Most want hard, alkaline water close to Malawi parameters.
Space
Many get large and territorial. Plan footprint, not just gallons.
Tank mates
Similar size and temperament. Avoid soft-water discus setups.
FAQ
Are Central American cichlids aggressive?
Many are territorial, especially when breeding. Overstock carefully or keep pairs with a plan.
Good first Central American?
Firemouths and convicts are popular starters. Research adult size before buying a wolf or dove.