Aztec Cichlid (Parachromis managuensis)

Family: Cichlidae

Aztec Cichlid — a Cichlidae from Central America, assertive but manageable with space and structure. Reaches 41.2–60.5 cm; singly, in pairs, or as a harem — never crowded. 24–30 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
24–30 °C
pH
7–8.7
GH hardness
10–15 dGH
Adult length
41.2–60.5 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Assertive but manageable with space and structure
Origin
Central America

Species overview

Parachromis managuensis is a Cichlidae from Central America. In the wild it prefers lakes and slow rivers with structure; in the aquarium it stays assertive but manageable with space and structure. Plan on 41.2–60.5 cm of adult fish at 24–30 °C. In a community tank it pairs well with Other cichlids of similar size and temperament.

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
Singly, in pairs, or as a harem — never crowded
Diet
Accepts all foods; emphasise quality over variety
Recommended tankmates
  • Other cichlids of similar size and temperament — Balance aggression across the tank
Avoid keeping with
  • Delicate planted-tank species — Uprooted and outcompeted

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Often striking; males larger and brighter
Breeding method
Cave or substrate spawner with prolonged parental care

Frequently asked questions

Is Aztec Cichlid easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: assertive but manageable with space and structure; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Aztec Cichlid need?

Set the heater to 24–30 °C and avoid swings. pH 7–8.7, GH 10–15 dGH suit it.

How big does Aztec Cichlid get, and what tank size?

Expect 41.2–60.5 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 500 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Aztec Cichlid eat?

Accepts all foods; emphasise quality over variety. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Aztec Cichlid live with other fish?

Assertive but manageable with space and structure. Recommended tankmates: Other cichlids of similar size and temperament — Balance aggression across the tank. Avoid Delicate planted-tank species — Uprooted and outcompeted.

Where does Aztec Cichlid come from?

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

Does Aztec Cichlid jump?

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

How does Aztec Cichlid breed?

Cave or substrate spawner with prolonged parental care. Often striking; males larger and brighter.