Blue-eye cichlid - Archocentrus spilurus

Scientific name: Archocentrus spilurus

Common name: Blue-eye cichlid

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 10 - 12 cm (3.94 - 4.72 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.7 - 7.6

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 7 - 21°N (125 - 375ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 21 - 25 °C (69.8 - 77°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Central America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive to smaller

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Food and feeding

Blue-eye cichlids should accept all foods offered. Use a quality flake or pellets for the staple diet but include vegetable matter as well for them. Treats of blood worms and brine shrimp will also be accepted.

Origin

Central America; Blue-eye cichlids are found in the waterways of Guatemala, Honduras, and Belize.

Sexing

Males will have extended finnage and be more colourful than the females.

Breeding

Archocentrus spilurus are cave spawners. They will clean their chosen cave or crevice and once the eggs are laid, the female will tend them while the male defends the territory. During this time they will be very aggressive to any tank mates so it is best to use a separate breeding tank. Once the fry are free swimming, they can be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp.

Lifespan

The expected life span for Blue-eye cichlid is 15 years.

Short description

Due to the aggressive nature of Blue-eye cichlids they should be kept with other tank mates who can look after themselves. The tank should be large with rocks added to provide hiding places and the water quality needs to be high. Regular water changes are a must.

Pictures

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