20/09/2017
Price: Php 150
Size: 1-1.5"
Scientific Name: Amphilophus citrinellum (Barred)
Common Name(s): Midas Cichlid
Geo. Origin: Nicaragua, the Atlantic side of Costa-Rica
Diet: Omnivore
Breeding: Substrate Spawner
Maximum Size: 16"
A very popular New World fish. Closely related to A. labiatus, (Red Devil Cichlid) so keeping recommendations will be the same for both species. Different variations in color for the Midas Cichlid have resulted in Banded, all Gold, Red/Silver and Gold mottled and even a 'combination' of these called 'piebald'. Males will grow a bit longer in length than the females of this species, and are much more powerfully built, with a large growing bulge on the forehead being the norm called a 'Nuchal' hump. A single 'Wet Pet' fish can be kept successfully in 75 gallon tanks. Successfully keeping and spawning these highly aggressive, powerful fish, once adult sizes are achieved, is best attempted with the 'partial divider' method in six foot long tanks, to protect the females from male aggression. Highly variable personality traits in individual fish may make this protective precaution unnecessary, if the male is proven over the long-term, to be calmer and more peaceful in disposition toward the female.
(Note: Photo for reference only. Credits to owner.)