Cichlid
Care basics
Cichla ocellaris is a huge predatory cichlid and a famous game fish. Juveniles are sometimes sold in stores, but adults outgrow almost every home aquarium.
Only consider one if you can house a fish of more than two feet. It needs tank mates that are just as large, such as big catfish or arowana.
Quick facts
| Scientific name | Cichla ocellaris |
|---|---|
| Group | South America |
| Native to | Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana and Suriname |
| Adult size | Up to about 30 inches, not counting the tail, a huge fish |
| Tank size | At least 10 feet long, 3 feet front to back and 4 feet deep for adults. A public aquarium sized fish |
| Temperature | 75 to 81 F |
| pH | 6.5 to 7.0 |
| Temperament | Territorial and moderately aggressive, and it eats any fish that fits in its mouth. |
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.
