Cichlasoma Urophthalmus - Aquarium Husbandry - Community Aquarium

Community Aquarium

Like all large cichlids and other aquarium fishes, and whether kept in a breeding pair or displayed in a community tank, the Mayan cichlid needs a large aquarium with good filtration. In general, unless they are being quarantined because of a disease, social animals like these and most other cichlids should not be kept alone, and they should be provided with enough room to interact safely with other fishes. A 55-gallon aquarium should be regarded as the minimum size for an aggressive, large cichlid like the Mayan cichlid. Even better would be to house these fish in a 70, 100, 120, or even 150-gallon tank. If they are to be housed with other species, the Mayan cichlid's tank mates must be of similar size and temperament. Some good potential tank mates would be other Central American cichlids, such as those from the Amphilophus group (the Midas cichlid, Amphilophus citrinellus, and the red devil cichlid, Amphilophus labiatus), and the Theraps group (the black belt cichlid, C. maculicauda, the redheaded cichlid C. synspilum, and the redspotted cichlid C. bifasciatum). It is not advisable to house the Mayan cichlid with other cichlids from the Nandopsis group, such as the jaguar cichlid, Parachromis managuensis, the wolf cichlid, Parachromis dovii, or the Motagua cichlid, Parachromis motaguensis. Because they are more closely related, the Mayan cichlid may perceive these species as too similar to itself and as a threat, which may lead to dangerous fighting for both the Mayan cichlid and its opponent. Other fishes that may be compatible with the Mayan cichlid are large Neotropical catfishes, such as the suckermouth armored catfish of the Loricariidae. This family includes favorite aquarium denizens like Hypostomus plecostomus and Pterygoplichthys pardalis.

. But be forewarned: this fish will eat fish small enough to fit in their mouths.