Festivum Cichlid

• ExerciseModerate

  An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• GroomingAttentive tank care

  Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• Living spaceNano-tank friendly

  Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment8–10 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Swim bladder disorder

The Festivum or Flag Cichlid (Mesonauta festivus) comes from slow, plant-choked waters of the Amazon and Paraguay basins and reaches about 13 to 15 cm. Its diagonal black stripe and elongated pelvic fins make it look like a relative of the angelfish, and in the wild the two often share the same still, wood-filled habitats. A group of four to six needs 200 litres or more at 24-28C, pH 6.0 to 7.5 in soft to moderately hard water, with tall driftwood, floating plants to shade the surface and calm flow. Feed quality flake and pellets with frozen bloodworm, mysis and some vegetable matter. Its defining trait is timidity: it hides under floating cover when startled and is easily outcompeted at feeding time, so tankmates need to be peaceful, and boisterous cichlids will keep it permanently in a corner. Given a quiet tank with cover it becomes confident and shoals loosely in the upper third, and pairs will spawn on a vertical leaf or wood surface.

• How active is a Festivum Cichlid?

  Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• How much maintenance does a Festivum Cichlid need?

  Attentive tank care. Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• What tank size does a Festivum Cichlid need?

  Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Is a Festivum Cichlid a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Festivum Cichlid live?

  8–10 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Festivum Cichlid?

  Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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