Banded cichlid - Heros notatus

Scientific name: Heros notatus

Common name: Banded cichlid

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 25 - 30 cm (9.84 - 11.81 inch)

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Recommended pH range: 6 - 7

Recommended water hardness: 1 - 8°N (17.86 - 142.86ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature range: 23 - 27 °C (73.4 - 80.6°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Short description

The Banded Cichlid (Heros notatus) is a large South American cichlid closely related to severums. It is recognizable by the series of vertical dark bands along its body. This species is hardy, adaptable, and far less aggressive than many large cichlids, making it a good choice for spacious community tanks with other robust fish.

Minimum tank size & aquascape

• Minimum tank: 400 L (≥150 cm length) for a pair; larger tanks (500–600 L) recommended for communities.
• Layout: Fine sand or smooth gravel substrate, large driftwood branches, broad-leaved plants (e.g. Echinodorus) and open swimming areas.
• Décor tips: Provide shaded zones with floating plants; stable rockwork or flat slate surfaces for spawning.

Water parameters

Maintain soft, slightly acidic water typical of Amazonian rivers. pH 6.0–7.0, hardness under 8 °dGH, and temperature 23–27 °C. Regular large water changes are important to maintain stability and reduce nitrate buildup.

Diet (Food and feeding)

An omnivorous species with a preference for protein-rich foods. Offer high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, mysis shrimp, and chopped earthworms. Supplement with blanched vegetables (spinach, zucchini, peas) to aid digestion. Avoid: excessive use of mammalian meat (beef/turkey heart) as it may cause long-term health issues.

Behavior & compatibility

• Conspecifics: Peaceful in groups when young; pairs become territorial during breeding.
• Other fish: Suitable for communities with other peaceful to moderately assertive cichlids, large tetras, silver dollars, or catfish (e.g. Sorubim, Pimelodus, Pterygoplichthys).
• Avoid: Very small fish (which may be eaten) and highly aggressive Central American cichlids.

Recommended tank mates (similar size ±20%)

• Heros severus (Severum)
• Geophagus altifrons (Eartheater cichlid)
• Uaru amphiacanthoides (Uaru cichlid)
• Metynnis hypsauchen (Silver dollar)
• Pterygoplichthys gibbiceps (Sailfin pleco)

Sexing

Sexing Heros notatus can be difficult. Males often display slightly more intense coloration, elongated dorsal and anal fin tips, and may grow larger than females. Venting is the most reliable method.

Breeding

• Mode: Substrate spawner, open-layer.
• Site: Flat rock, driftwood, or aquarium glass.
• Clutch: 200–500 eggs; hatching in 60–72 hours at ~26 °C.
• Parental care: Both parents guard eggs and fry; fry become free-swimming after 5–7 days and accept newly hatched brine shrimp and finely powdered foods.

Plants (region-compatible)

Heros notatus can be kept with sturdy South American plants such as Echinodorus spp. (Amazon swords), Nymphaea lotus, and floating plants like Pistia or Salvinia. Some individuals may nibble on leaves, so use resilient species.

Care level

Moderate. Requires a large aquarium, stable water quality, and a varied omnivorous diet. Hardy once established and a rewarding centerpiece for South American community aquaria.

Picture

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.