American Cichlid Info

[steve617]

Just trying to get some info on this cichlid. I think it is an eartheater. Also wondering if anyone can tell if they are opposite sex. I just figure the one is bigger and has a longer fin is a male and the other is a female. Any info will be helpful. Thanks

Steve

[steve617]

The color is a actually a little different. I took the photo about 2 mins after I turned them loose. I think I was wrong about the Eartheater. Now I believe that it is what is called a Threadfin Cichlid.(Acarichthys heckelii ). Hopefully someomne can have some info on this fish.

Thanks

[Marcus]

They are not threadfins and are an eartheater, just not Geophagus. They are a Gymnogeophagus species. Most likely rhabdotus or meridionalis. Both species come from temperate waters and do better with a 'cool period' as low as 65°F for a few months while keeping them at 74°F-76°F the rest of the year.

Do a google search and you should come up with some info.

[steve617]

Thanks after doing a search I think that they are meridionalis's
I have not found much info yet but I have several pics. I bought the 2 today for $8.98 each.

Thanks for the info.

Steve

[Marcus]

Pretty nice pickup at that price. Not a terribly common fish. As they mature they get absolutely gorgeous. Just keep in mind that even though they are a cichlid they are not real nasty. Tankmates need to be chosen carefully.

Good luck!!

[steve617]

Thanks Marcus

I will probably not add anything with them I have 3 good size SYN catfish in there. I may try to get rid of one of the cats later. They had one of those cichlids left. Very tempting to go back and get it.

Steve

[steve617]

By the way I have them in a 58 gallon tank. Thanks again. I will do more research.

Steve