Red Devil Cichlid

• ExerciseHigh

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

• GroomingDemanding tank care

  Demands pristine water — frequent testing and meticulous upkeep.

• Living spaceMid-size tank

  Needs a mid-size aquarium with room to swim.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment10–15 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

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

The Red Devil (Amphilophus labiatus) comes from the crater lakes of Nicaragua and reaches about 25 to 30 cm. Wild fish are usually grey-brown; the orange and red seen in shops is the common captive form. Its distinguishing feature is the fleshy, sometimes strikingly enlarged lips, which shrink in aquarium fish that do not have to probe rock crevices for food. An adult needs 450 litres or more at 23-28C, pH 6.5 to 8.0 in moderately hard water, with heavy filtration, secured hardscape and nothing breakable. Feed a high-quality cichlid pellet with frozen krill, shrimp and vegetable content, avoiding mammal meat. It is a genuinely intelligent fish that recognises its keeper, begs, and can be trained to hand feed, and it is also one of the most aggressive cichlids kept: adults commonly must live alone, and pairs sometimes turn on each other. Buy it as a single-fish tank rather than as a community centrepiece, and keep a divider on hand.

• How active is a Red Devil Cichlid?

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

• How much maintenance does a Red Devil Cichlid need?

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

• What tank size does a Red Devil Cichlid need?

  Mid-size tank. Needs a mid-size aquarium with room to swim.

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

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Red Devil Cichlid live?

  10–15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Red Devil 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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