Haitian cichlid - Nandopsis haitiensis

Scientific name: Nandopsis haitiensis

Common name: Haitian cichlid

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 20 - 23 cm (7.87 - 9.06 inch)

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Recommended pH range: 7.2 - 8

Recommended water hardness: 4 - 16°N (71.43 - 285.71ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature range: 23 - 28 °C (73.4 - 82.4°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Central America

Temperament to its own species: aggressive/territorial

Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive/territorial

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Short description

The Haitian cichlid (Nandopsis haitiensis) is a powerful, highly territorial cichlid endemic to the Caribbean island of Hispaniola (Haiti and the Dominican Republic). Adults develop striking pearly spots over a steel-grey to white body and a bold, commanding presence. This species is not a community fish: it requires ample space, heavy décor for sightline breaks, and experienced handling—especially when a pair forms.

Origin

Native to Hispaniola in the Caribbean, where it inhabits rivers, reservoirs, and lakes with rocky or mixed substrates and moderate current. Water chemistry in its range is often mineral-rich; stable, clean conditions are more important than chasing exact numbers.

Food and feeding

An omnivore with a carnivorous bias. Offer a varied staple of high-quality cichlid pellets (floating or sinking), supplemented with frozen foods (krill, mysis, shrimp, chopped fish) and occasional greens (blanched spinach, peas) to aid digestion. Avoid fatty mammalian meats. Feed modest portions 1–2× daily; overfeeding leads to rapid, unhealthy weight gain.

Sexing

External differences are subtle. Males typically grow larger, may develop extended dorsal/anal tips and a nuchal hump, while females are smaller and rounder when gravid. Venting is the most reliable method when accuracy matters.

Breeding

A biparental substrate spawner with intense pair-bond aggression. Provide large flat stones or tiles. Typical spawns are 200–500 eggs, hatching in ~48–72 hours (at ~26–27 °C). Fry become free-swimming after 4–7 days; feed with newly hatched brine shrimp and quality powdered foods. Important: Use a divider or escape spaces when forming pairs—males can injure or kill females. Remove other tank mates during breeding.

Lifespan

With excellent care and space, expect 8–12 years.

Behavior & compatibility

Aggressive and strongly territorial, especially as adults and during breeding. Best kept as a species-only fish (single specimen) or a carefully managed pair in a large tank. If attempted with tank mates, choose only similarly robust, fast, and comparably sized cichlids—and be ready to separate at short notice.

Tank requirements

• Minimum tank: 350–450 L for a single adult; 500–700 L for a pair.
• Aquascape: sand or fine gravel with heavy rockwork, large driftwood, and multiple flat stones; create firm territories and broken sightlines.
• Water management: stable, well-oxygenated water; aim around pH 7.2–8.0 and moderate hardness if possible; weekly 30–50% water changes.
• Filtration: powerful external/sump filtration; this is a messy, high-protein feeder.

Care level

Advanced. Requires space, strong filtration, careful aggression management, and disciplined maintenance. Rewarding for keepers who enjoy large, characterful cichlids and species-focused setups.

Notes on identification

Do not confuse Nandopsis haitiensis with Nandopsis tetracanthus (Cuban cichlid). Patterns overlap in photos; locality and stable adult spotting help separate them. Using the correct name prevents mismatched care advice.

Picture

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