Butterfly Cichlid

This species can be distinguished by the dark line running through the middle of the body and the large black blotch positioned midlength; head profile extremely curved with the mouth on the lower part of the head; in males, the scales have dark edges producing a reticulated pattern, their fins with many dark spots, and a red edge to the dorsal fin; both males with iridescent, greenish-blue head and with gold to copper-colored bodies (Ref. 44091).

Deposits eggs in sand depressions. Produces about 200-400 non adhesive eggs with females practicing communal care during the post spawning period (an unusual behavior referred to as "creching", Ref. 44091). A group of 3 or 4 females stand guard over their combined spawns, encircling the expanded group and do not allow any intruders or predators into the rearing arena.

Dorsal spines (total): 18 - 19; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9 - 11; Anal spines: 7 - 8; Analsoft rays: 7 - 9

Inhabits lakes and slow moving rivers with moderate currents. Juveniles feed on aquatic insects, while adults feed on bottom detritus, seeds and leaves. Also naturally feed on snails and other mollusks, but will accept a variety of food in captivity (Ref. 44091).

Inhabit lakes and rivers with slow to moderate currents, between 5 to 200 m elevation (Ref. 36880). Juveniles feed on aquatic insects, while adults feed on bottom detritus, seeds and leaves. Also naturally feed on snails and other mollusks, but will accept a variety of food in captivity (Ref. 44091). Maximum length 25 cm TL (Ref. 2060).

fisheries: of no interest; aquarium: commercial