Theraps is a small fish genus from the cichlidae family. They are endemic to Central America, ranging from Mexico to Panama. Several Theraps sp. have been found across the southern United States as invasive species.
Several of the genera that were formerly included in "Cichlasoma", including "Theraps" are under further scientific review, including dna studies. A reclassification is expected in the next few years. The species listed below were the latest designations as of fall 2009. Distinctions between Vieja and "Theraps" are not fully clear at this time.
Theraps species are very territorial and aggressive towards others, especially during breeding. They may be kept in the same aquarium with other robust cichlids and catfish with varying success. For breeding or maintaining multiple specimens, a tank of 40 US gallons (150 L) or larger is recommended. Depending on fish size, a single specimen may be kept in a tank of 20 to 40 US gallons (76 to 150 L).
Omnivorous feeders, they eat a wide variety of insects, crustaceans, small fish, worms, algae, and plant material. As with many other cichlids, they may dig out or chew up aquarium plants. In aquaria prepared flake and pellet foods as well as frozen or live invertebrates will be readily consumed. Theraps sp. should also be offered a variety of steamed or boiled vegetables, such as peas, spinach, zucchini, lima beans, or brussels sprouts.
Theraps lay several hundred eggs on flat stones, or in a pit in the sand or gravel. Mature adults are very attentive parents and may injure or kill other fish when guarding the young (fry). Males are often more colorful and generally larger than females, and may develop a hump on the head as they age. Captive breeding is difficult to very difficult; live foods, frequent water changes, and a temperature increase of 2 to 4 degrees encourages spawning. Several artificial or rock caves for fish to hide from each other are advisable.
- Species
"Cichlasoma" (Theraps) bifasciatum
- size up to 10" (25 cm)
- native to Mexico, Guatemala
- also known as (AKA): Red-spotted Cichlid, Cichlasoma melanurum, Astronotus bifasciatum, Cichlasoma bifasciatus
- water conditions: pH 6.5-7.5, dH 2-15 (6), 72-82°F (22-28°C)
"Cichlasoma" (Theraps) maculicauda
- size up to 12" (30 cm)
- southern Mexico to Panama
- AKA: Black Belt Cichlid, Astatheros maculicauda, Astronotus parma, Chuco globosum, C. manana, Cichlasoma globosum, C. manana, C. nigritum, C. parma, Heros parma
- water conditions: pH 6.5-8, 4-15 dH (6), 72-82°F (22-28°C)
"Cichlasoma" (Theraps) nicaraguensis
- size to 10" (25 cm)
- Nicaragua, Costa Rica
- AKA: Nicaragua Cichlid, Nicaraguense, Spilotum, Cichlasoma balteatum, C. nicaraguense, C. spilotum, Heros nicaraguensis
- water conditions pH 6.7-8, 4-20 dH (10), 73-81°F (23-27°C)
"Cichlasoma" (Theraps) wesseli
- AKA: Wessel's Cichlid
- up to 20 cm (8 in)
- northern Honduras
- water conditions pH 7.4 - 8.2, 73-81°F (23-27°C)
"Cichlasoma" (Theraps) coeruleus
- size to 6in (15 cm)
- native to Usumacinta river, Mexico and Guatemala; also found as an invasive species in the Trinity River (Texas) . (Personal observation of Keith Jennings, an experienced aquarist near Dallas, TX.)
- ph 7.0 to 8.0 dh 9 to 20, 22-28°C
- prefers robust water movement (rheophilic), feeds mainly on algae and invertebrates
"Cichlasoma" (Theraps) irregularis information needed
"Cichlasoma" (Theraps) lentiginosus information needed