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Jaguar Cichlid, Parachromis managuensis
Central American · Species profile

Jaguar Cichlid care

A predator that sees smaller fish as food. Always territorial and aggressive when breeding.

  • Up to about 24 inches, not counting the tailAdult size
  • 75 to 86 FTemperature

Food

Almost entirely carnivorous. Feed large pellets plus meaty foods such as prawns and fish fillet.

Feeding guide

Tank mates

Only other large, robust cichlids and big catfish.

Compatibility guide

Best setup

A very large tank, at least 6 feet long for an adult. Sand, large smooth rocks and driftwood, with strong filtration. Wedge or glue rockwork securely, as these fish dig and move things.

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Care basics

The jaguar cichlid is a big predator with a spotted, jaguar like pattern. It is a striking fish, but adults grow large and powerful.

Only house it with very large, robust fish, and give plenty of rocks, wood and caves so the female can escape the male.

Quick facts

Scientific nameParachromis managuensis
GroupCentral America
Native toAtlantic slope of Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica
Adult sizeUp to about 24 inches, not counting the tail
Tank sizeA very large tank, at least 6 feet long for an adult
Temperature75 to 86 F
pH6.0 to 8.0
TemperamentA predator that sees smaller fish as food. Always territorial and aggressive when breeding.

Figures follow published species profiles such as Seriously Fish, and tank sizes are general guidance. Individual fish and local water vary, so test your water and ask your fish store about the specific fish you buy.

Ozzy the oscar holding a shopping bag
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Shop the Jaguar Cichlid setup

The tank, food, filter, heater and decor that suit Jaguar Cichlid, based on the care notes above.

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Gear We Recommend

Gear for Jaguar Cichlid

All gear
Best for: Oscars and big cichlids

Large cichlid pellets

Big bites for big mouths, with less mess than frozen foods.

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Best for: Tanks 55 gallons and up

Canister filter

Moves lots of water and holds lots of media. The workhorse of most cichlid tanks.

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Best for: Oscars and big cichlid communities

125 gallon tank

Six feet of swimming room for big New World cichlids.

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Best for: African rock tanks

Holey limestone rock

Lots of caves and it gently buffers hardness for Malawi and Tanganyika fish.

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