Jaguar cichlid - Parachromis managuensis

Scientific name: Parachromis managuensis

Common name: Jaguar cichlid

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 35 - 55 cm (13.78 - 21.65 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 7 - 8.7

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 10 - 15°N (178.57 - 267.86ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 25 - 30 °C (77 - 86°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 to smaller

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and Feeding

Jaguar Cichlids are carnivorous fish that require a protein-rich diet to thrive. High-quality cichlid pellets are an excellent staple food for them, as these pellets are specifically designed to meet the nutritional needs of large, predatory cichlids. Additionally, supplementing their diet with foods such as krill, earthworms, and shrimp can help promote their natural hunting instincts and provide essential nutrients. These foods also enhance their vibrant coloration and overall health.

It’s important to avoid feeding Jaguar Cichlids live feeder fish. Although live food can seem like a natural choice for such a predatory species, feeder fish often carry parasites and diseases that can be transmitted to your Jaguar Cichlid. Instead, stick to frozen or dried meaty foods that are safe and nutritionally balanced. A varied diet that includes both pellets and live food alternatives will help keep your Jaguar Cichlid healthy and energetic.

Origin

The Jaguar Cichlid is native to the freshwater rivers and lakes of Central America, specifically in Costa Rica and Nicaragua. In the wild, these fish inhabit warm, slow-moving waters with soft substrates and plenty of hiding spots. Their natural environment is rich in plant life, submerged wood, and rocky areas, which provide shelter and ambush points for hunting prey. Understanding their natural habitat can help aquarists create a tank environment that closely mimics these conditions, making the fish feel more secure and reducing stress.

Sexing

Sexing juvenile Jaguar Cichlids is difficult, as there are no obvious differences between males and females at a young age. However, as the fish mature, males begin to develop distinctive physical traits. Adult male Jaguar Cichlids typically grow larger than females and develop a striking golden body color covered with black, jaguar-like spots. Males also have longer and more pointed dorsal and anal fins, while females tend to be more rounded and less vibrant in color.

Breeding

Jaguar Cichlids are known to be prolific breeders once they reach sexual maturity. To encourage breeding, it’s important to provide flat surfaces such as rocks or broad-leaved plants in the aquarium for the female to lay her eggs. They will also use the glass of the tank if no other suitable surface is available. Once the eggs are laid, the female will guard and tend to the eggs, while the male takes on the role of defending the territory from intruders. Jaguar Cichlids are highly protective parents, and their aggression levels may increase significantly during this time.

The eggs typically hatch within 3 to 5 days, depending on the water temperature. After hatching, the fry will become free-swimming within a few more days. At this stage, you can begin feeding them with crushed flake food or newly hatched brine shrimp to support their growth. Regular water changes and maintaining optimal water conditions are essential to ensuring the fry's survival.

Lifespan

With proper care, Jaguar Cichlids can live up to 15 years or more in captivity. Providing a well-maintained, spacious environment with clean water and a balanced diet will significantly contribute to their longevity. Regular health checks and monitoring water quality are crucial for ensuring a long, healthy life for your Jaguar Cichlid.

Short Description

The Jaguar Cichlid is a large and powerful predator that requires a substantial tank size to accommodate its active nature and territorial behavior. A minimum tank size of 125 gallons (475 liters) is recommended for a single adult, with larger tanks needed if you plan to keep multiple cichlids. Open swimming spaces are essential for this species, as they are highly active and need plenty of room to roam.

If you’re housing more than one Jaguar Cichlid or other large cichlids, ensure the tank has plenty of hiding spots and barriers to help reduce aggression. Jaguar Cichlids can be aggressive toward other fish, especially during breeding periods, so tank mates should be chosen carefully. Other large, robust cichlids or similarly sized fish are the best options for companions. However, if you have a breeding pair, it’s advisable to keep them in a separate tank to minimize conflicts with other fish.

Pictures

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk. One picture was provided by our contributor.