Cichla monoculus

Scientific name: Cichla monoculus

Common name: N/A

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 60 - 70 cm (23.62 - 27.56 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 7.5

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 3 - 12°N (53.57 - 214.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 25 - 28 °C (77 - 82.4°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: aggressive to smaller

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Food and feeding

Cichla monoculus are carnivorous and will see smaller tank mates as food. They can be fed on live foods or frozen foods but should accept quality pellets after a time.

Origin

South America; Cichla monoculus are to be found in the Amazonian Basins of Peru, Colombia, and Brazil.

Sexing

There are no visible differences between the sexes but it is believed that the males will mature months before the females. Some males may develop a nuchal hump

Breeding

Cichla monoculus grow very large, a large aquarium or pond is needed for breeding purposes. The eggs will be laid on a flat surface and both parents will protect the batch. They will continue protecting the young for a few weeks but when they are ready to spawn again, it is best to remove the fry for their own safety. The fry are quite quick growing and will thrive on brine shrimp and crushed cichlid pellets.

Lifespan

It is believed that Cichla monoculus can live up to 20 years.

Short description

Many keepers will keep Cichla monoculus in ponds as they do grow very large.

Pictures

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