Amphilophus labiatus

Family: Cichlidae

Amphilophus labiatus — a Cichlidae from Central America. Reaches 22.5–33 cm; keep at 24–30 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
24–30 °C
pH
6.5–8
GH hardness
5–19 dGH
Adult length
22.5–33 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Middle of the water column
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding
Origin
Central America

Species overview

A Cichlidae species native to Central America: Amphilophus labiatus lives middle of the water column over lakes and slow rivers with structure. Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding. Adults reach 22.5–33 cm. In a community tank it pairs well with Similar-sized peaceful community fish.

Native biotope

Habitat
Lakes and slow rivers with structure
Flow
Still to gentle current
Dissolved O₂
Moderate

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Sand with rock piles
Hardscape
Stones, caves and broken lines of sight
Plants
Hardy species that tolerate digging

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Pairs or singles with defined territory
Diet
Omnivore to carnivore; quality prepared foods
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Often striking; males larger and brighter
Breeding method
Substrate or cave spawner with parental care

Frequently asked questions

Is Amphilophus labiatus easy to keep?

Intermediate difficulty. Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding; pairs or singles with defined territory.

What temperature and water chemistry does Amphilophus labiatus need?

Aim for 24–30 °C. Heater required for stable tropical warmth; 24–30 °C curated husbandry range.

How big does Amphilophus labiatus get, and what tank size?

Expect 22.5–33 cm as an adult, living middle of the water column. A 500 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Amphilophus labiatus eat?

Omnivore to carnivore; quality prepared foods. It forages naturally over sand with rock piles, so let some food reach the bottom.

Can Amphilophus labiatus live with other fish?

Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding. Recommended tankmates: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Avoid Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Amphilophus labiatus come from?

Native to Central America, where it lives in lakes and slow rivers with structure. Still to gentle current; Moderate.

Does Amphilophus labiatus jump?

Not a noted jumper — a standard cover still keeps dust and spray in.

How does Amphilophus labiatus breed?

In the aquarium: substrate or cave spawner with parental care. Often striking; males larger and brighter.