Red devil cichlid - Amphilophus labiatus

Scientific name: Amphilophus labiatus

Common name: Red devil cichlid

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 20 - 27 cm (7.87 - 10.63 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 7.5

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 10 - 22°N (178.57 - 392.86ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 28 °C (71.6 - 82.4°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: Middle levels

Red Devil Cichlid Overview

Red Devil Cichlids are among the larger cichlid species. They are known for their strong aggression, which makes them unsuitable for beginner fish keepers. These fish are very active and need a lot of swimming space, so they don’t do well in smaller tanks.

Origin

These cichlids come from Central America, specifically the lakes of Nicaragua. They are scientifically called Amphilophus labiatus. There is ongoing debate about whether they are the same as the Midas Cichlid (Amphilophus citrinellus), which has a wider natural range. Both look similar, but no final answer has been reached.

Size

Red Devil Cichlids can grow up to 15 inches (38.1 cm) in captivity. They are sturdy fish with strong personalities and can intimidate other tank mates. They can inflict injuries if they choose to. Although they are known for their red color, some may also be white or yellow, with black edges on their fins. In captivity, some may develop thicker lips, a trait not seen in the wild, though the reason is still unclear.

Caring for Red Devil Cichlids

These fish need large aquariums. A tank of at least 50 gallons (227.3 liters) is recommended. Larger tanks usually reduce aggression. For multiple Red Devils, a tank of at least 125 gallons (568.3 liters) is needed so each fish can have its own territory. A sandy substrate is best, and while décor is optional, it can help manage territorial issues if placed wisely. Ensure any décor is secure to prevent tipping and leave plenty of open swimming space.

Red Devil Cichlids are high waste producers, so use a filtration system rated for a larger volume than your tank and perform regular water changes of at least 10% weekly. Maintain moderate water flow and cover heaters with guards to prevent burns if the fish move them.

Water Conditions

Red Devil Cichlids thrive in fairly soft water. Adding bog wood to the tank can help achieve this. They prefer a temperature range of 24 - 26°C (75 - 79°F) and a pH between 6.5 and 7.0.

If you want to keep Red Devils with other fish, use a large aquarium with décor to create territories. They should only be housed with similarly sized cichlids that can stand their ground or with larger catfish species.

Feeding

Feeding Red Devil Cichlids is straightforward. They have a hearty appetite and will eventually recognize the person who feeds them. Offer a varied diet to keep them interested. Use high-quality flakes or cichlid pellets, and supplement with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, or chopped earthworms. Contrary to popular belief, Red Devils are not strictly carnivorous; they also need vegetable matter. Include blanched peas, lettuce, or spirulina flakes in their diet.

Like other large cichlids, Red Devils are prone to diseases. Maintain high water quality to support a strong immune system and prevent issues like Hole-in-the-Head Disease (HITH), which is caused by poor water conditions and stress. Proper tank maintenance will help keep your fish healthy.

Breeding Red Devil Cichlids

Breeding Red Devil Cichlids should be done in a separate tank to avoid stress and aggression towards other fish. These cichlids are relatively easy to breed if provided with the right conditions. Determining the sex of the fish is straightforward, especially during spawning when the papilla are visible. Males are generally larger and have a pointed papilla, while females have a more rounded one.

Red Devil Cichlids are open spawners and prefer laying eggs on an inclined surface like slate or bog wood. They may even use the ceiling of a cave if available. To prevent aggression, provide hiding places for the female until she and the male form a bond. Males can be quite aggressive until this bond is established.

Once bonded, the pair will dig pits in the substrate before spawning. However, eggs may be laid in other areas like slate or rocks. Typically, about 700 eggs are laid and quickly fertilized by the male. Both parents will care for the eggs, removing any that are white and infected with fungus or unfertilized.

Do not disturb the tank while the parents are guarding the eggs, as the male will be very protective. The eggs usually hatch within 3-5 days. Do not feed the fry until they are free-swimming, as they initially rely on their yolk sacs. After a few days, you can start feeding them newly hatched brine shrimp or commercial egg-layer food. The parents will move the fry around the tank, often digging new pits. It’s common for the fry to seem to disappear, only to reappear in a different pit.

Keeping Red Devil Cichlids is manageable with proper care, reducing aggression, and maintaining high water quality.

Lifespan

Red Devil Cichlids can live 10 - 15 years with proper care.

Q/A

Below is a frequently asked question added on March 25^th, 2011, following the merger of aqua-fish.net/answers with related pages.

• Why does my Red Devil Cichlid have a dark spot under its mouth?

  Answer: The dark spot may result from a minor injury while feeding or from natural aging. In mature cichlids, unusual lumps around the head area are common, though their exact cause is not fully understood.

Pictures

Special thanks to Kevin, Tom, and Belinda for generously allowing us to use their photos. We also appreciate contributions from Jeremie, LittleMalynda, John Ellis, Stan, and Tamri Shavi.