More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 250 litres / 66.04 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 25.0cm / 9.84inches |
| Temperature | 22°C / 71.60°F - 27°C / 80.60°F |
| Hardness | 3.03dgH / 54ppm - 15.02dgH / 268ppm |
| pH | 6.5-7.5 |
General Description
A. calobrensis, commonly known as the Redspot Cichlid, belongs to the Cichlidae family within the Perciformes order. Native to coastal rivers draining Panama's Pacific slope, it tends to inhabit large bodies of water, favoring rocky walls and submerged banks. This species can grow up to 25.0cm in length and requires a minimum tank size of 250 litres.
Aquarium Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Redspot Cichlid, it is crucial to provide plenty of rocks for hiding places and territorial marking. The tank should have well-secured rockwork and efficient filtration due to their messy feeding habits. Plants are unnecessary as they are likely to be uprooted. Water hardness should be between 54-268ppm, pH levels maintained at 6.5-7.5, and the temperature kept at 22-27°C (see table for details).
Behaviour
Known for its belligerent and territorial nature, this species can coexist with other robust Central American cichlids, large Loricariids, big catfish, and agile shoaling species in tanks larger than 1000 litres. It displays aggressive behaviors, especially during spawning, and parental care is prominent post-reproduction.
Feeding and Diet
The Redspot Cichlid is an omnivore, accepting cichlid sticks as a staple diet supplemented with live and frozen foods such as earthworms, prawns, mussels, peas, and spinach. High-protein foods like beefheart should be avoided as they can harm the digestive system. Live fish are not recommended as part of their diet.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
Breeding this species requires a compatible pair in a tank with appropriate spawning sites like large rocks and flowerpots. Males can be aggressive towards females, necessitating careful monitoring. Sexual dimorphism includes larger, deeper-bodied males with the potential for a nuchal hump and longer fins compared to females. Females tend to have shorter fins.
Habitat and Distribution
In the wild, the Redspot Cichlid is commonly found in large, permanent bodies of water including lakes, ponds, and slow-moving river parts with submerged rocky walls. Its natural distribution is limited to coastal rivers draining Panama's Pacific slope.