粗中丽鱼

Overview

Mesonauta insignis is a generally peaceful South American cichlid for a well-planted aquarium. Breeding increases its defensive behavior. Its resemblance to another flag cichlid has caused persistent trade-name confusion.

Distribution & habitat

It occurs in the Orinoco and Negro drainages of Brazil and Venezuela, using densely vegetated rivers.

Aquarium setup

Plant generously around wood and branches over sand, with moderate water movement and subdued lighting. For breeding, maintain a quiet setting rather than repeatedly disturbing the parents to inspect them.

Diet & feeding

The species is naturally omnivorous and normally accepts dried foods such as cichlid pellets. Add bloodworms, Artemia, and other live or frozen items, plus algae wafers, spirulina-containing food, or softened greens.

Behaviour & compatibility

Peaceful cichlids and other appropriately sized community fishes with matching needs are potential partners. Small catfishes can also be considered. Spawning pairs defend their brood more strongly, so allow space and monitor pressure on companions.

Sexual dimorphism

Males become larger and develop longer dorsal and anal extensions.

Breeding

A prepared flat stone or similar surface receives the eggs, sometimes numbering more than two hundred. Both adults guard them. After two to three days the eggs hatch and the young are carried to a pit, becoming free-swimming another three or four days later. Frightened parents may consume the brood, making a low-disturbance setting useful. Fry initially take Artemia nauplii and powdered foods before moving to larger particles.

Notes

Both this species and Mesonauta festivus may be sold as flag cichlids, depending on collection and export origin. Retain provenance and avoid treating a commercial name as a confirmed identification.