Nicaraguan Cichlid 2", Macaw, Nicaraguensis

One of the most colorful fish in the hobby, the Hypsophrys nicaraguensis, has such a beautiful blend of yellows, reds, and blues that its common name is the Macaw cichlid. Unlike most cichlids, the female Nicaraguensis typically is far more colorful than its male counterpart. Females stay at about 7", but males can grow up to 10". A sandy tank bottom with driftwood and rocks for hiding, and some plants work well. Fun fact: they are the only Central American cichlid that lays non-adhesive eggs. 

I've heard of hobbyists keeping an all female tank with a Macaw, Vieja fenestratus, Salvini, and West African Jewel. Also any Synodontis catfish make good tank mates.

Water Conditions:

7 - 8 pH

75 - 82 F

4 - 20 KH

Breeding: Captive bred on our farm.