Jaguar Cichlid

• ExerciseHigh

  A busy, energetic swimmer — keep plenty of open swimming room.

• GroomingDemanding tank care

  Demands pristine water — frequent testing and meticulous upkeep.

• Living spaceLarge tank

  Needs a large aquarium — several hundred liters.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment12–15 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

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

The Jaguar Cichlid (Parachromis managuensis) comes from lakes and rivers of Nicaragua, Honduras and Costa Rica and reaches about 35 to 40 cm for males, with females somewhat smaller. Juveniles are plain silver with a dark line and give no hint of the adult pattern of black spots and blotches over gold, which develops over the first two years. A single adult needs 600 litres or more at 24-28C, pH 7.0 to 8.5 in moderately hard water, with heavy filtration, large secured rocks and open swimming length. Feed quality large cichlid pellets, frozen krill, whole shrimp and silversides, and avoid live feeder fish, which introduce disease. This is a predator with a large mouth and a strong territorial drive, and it will eat any tankmate it can fit and fight most that it cannot. It is best kept alone or as an established pair in a very large tank. Anyone considering it should size the tank for the adult, plan filtration for a heavy waste load, and accept a twelve to fifteen year commitment.

• How active is a Jaguar Cichlid?

  High. A busy, energetic swimmer — keep plenty of open swimming room.

• How much maintenance does a Jaguar Cichlid need?

  Demanding tank care. Demands pristine water — frequent testing and meticulous upkeep.

• What tank size does a Jaguar Cichlid need?

  Large tank. Needs a large aquarium — several hundred liters.

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

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Jaguar Cichlid live?

  12–15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Jaguar 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.

Be the first to join this community!