绿宝丽鱼 · Green Terror Cichlid

Overview

Andinoacara rivulatus is a large, aggressive and territorial cichlid usually best kept alone or as a compatible pair. The mature male's impressive hump and appearance should not distract from the space and management needed to control conflict.

Distribution & habitat

It is native to extreme northern Peru and coastal drainages of western Ecuador, extending at least to the Esmeraldas system and possibly farther north. Northern populations may represent another species, so their taxonomic boundaries remain uncertain. Freshwater streams and rivers in coastal regions form its habitat.

Aquarium setup

Provide a footprint of at least approximately 150 × 45 cm. Soft sand, wood and large flat stones supply shelter and possible spawning surfaces. Visual barriers may reduce conflict in attempted communities but will not remove aggression. Floating cover and attached plants are preferable to rooted vegetation, which may be excavated. Effective biological filtration and disciplined maintenance are necessary because water-quality deterioration is poorly tolerated.

Diet & feeding

This generally unfussy omnivore can receive quality cichlid sticks with earthworms, prawns and mussels. Include plant foods such as peas and spinach. Beef heart and other red meats are unsuitable routine offerings because they can adversely affect digestion.

Behaviour & compatibility

A single fish or isolated pair is normally the most practical arrangement. Tanks larger than roughly 650 liters offer possibilities for robust cichlids, large catfishes or sufficiently large active companions, but still require close observation. Do not leave a breeding pair in a community: other occupants may suffer lethal attacks once spawning begins.

Sexual dimorphism

Males are substantially larger and develop prominent forehead humps, often with extended dorsal and anal fins. The hump is mainly seasonal in wild fish but may remain conspicuous in captivity.

Breeding

Safe pairing is the main difficulty. Direct introduction of unfamiliar adults can result in the female being killed. Raising at least six juveniles and retaining a naturally formed pair is preferable; remove all other fish afterward. A transparent divider can assist familiarization but does not establish guaranteed compatibility. Breeding conditions can use slightly soft water around pH 6.5–7.0 and 24 °C, air-powered filtration, flat stones and generous live or frozen foods.

Maturity occurs at roughly 10–15 cm. Substantial changes with somewhat cooler water have stimulated spawning. After cleaning a stone, pot or excavated pit, the female lays rows and the male fertilizes them, with up to about 400 eggs. Hatching takes three to four days. Fry are transferred to a pit and swim freely after another six to eight days, when microworms, brine-shrimp nauplii and powdered dry foods are suitable. Care often lasts around six weeks. Premature brood removal may prompt renewed courtship and place an unready female at risk from the male.