Spiny Cichlid (Archocentrus spinosissimus)

Scientific Name(s): Archocentrus spinosissimus, Cichlasoma immaculata, Cichlasoma spinosissimum immaculata, Cichlasoma spinosissimus, Heros spinosissimus

 

Common Name(s): Spiny Cichlid, Spiney Cichlid, Spinner Cichlid, Spinos Cichlid

 

Family: Cichlidae

 

Species Type: Central American Cichlids

 

Maximum Size: 6 inches

 

Life Span: 7 years

 

Natural Habitat: Central American Lake Ezabal

 

Minimum Tank Size: 40 gallons

 

Tank Region: All over but does like it near the bottom region.

 

Possible Tank Mates: Other Central American cichlids. catfish and Plecos are always welcome as well.

 

Description: Create nicely planted tank with many hiding places, because the Spiny cichlid is shy in nature. They tend to guard their fry very well and they are good parents.

 

Temperature Range 72°F - 80°F

60°F

65°F

70°F

75°F

80°F

85°F

90°F

 

pH Range 6.8 - 7.8

pH 5.0

pH 6.0

pH 7.0

pH 8.0

pH 9.0

 

Hardness 5° - 15°

0°

10°

20°

30°

40°

 

Breeding Information: Very prolific Substrate spawners. Use a ratio of 1 male to 1 female. And have some caves for them to spawn in/on. Like several of the other Archocentrus genus, these fish will take the wrigglers and "hang" them in some plants. Have lots of java moss in the tank, and you will be able to witness this. The Archocentrus centarcus will do this as well. The gestation period of the eggs is 48 hours, give or take depending on the temp. These fish are good parents and guard/raise the fry well.

 

Sexing Information: Males tend to be larger and thicker than females.

 

Diet: Omnivorous - does well with flake and pellet foods. Diet can be supplimented with green vegetables and meaty foods.

 

Temperment: Generally peaceful for a cichlid but aggressive when spawning or protecting young.

 

Common Diseases: None specific to species.

 

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Spiny Cichlid (Archocentrus spinosissimus)