Symphysodon tarzoo

Family: Cichlidae

Symphysodon tarzoo — a Cichlidae from South America. Reaches 11.2–16.5 cm; keep at 26–32 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
26–32 °C
pH
5–8
GH hardness
0–12 dGH
Adult length
11.2–16.5 cm
Minimum tank
327 L
Water layer
Middle of the water column
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding
Origin
South America

Species overview

A Cichlidae species native to South America: Symphysodon tarzoo lives middle of the water column over lakes and slow rivers with structure. Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding. Adults reach 11.2–16.5 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Symphysodon species we profile, alongside Symphysodon aequifasciatus.

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 Symphysodon tarzoo 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 Symphysodon tarzoo need?

Aim for 26–32 °C. Heater required for stable tropical warmth; 26–32 °C curated husbandry range.

How big does Symphysodon tarzoo get, and what tank size?

Expect 11.2–16.5 cm as an adult, living middle of the water column. A 327 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Symphysodon tarzoo eat?

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

Can Symphysodon tarzoo live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding — pair it with Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs and skip Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Symphysodon tarzoo come from?

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

Does Symphysodon tarzoo jump?

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

How does Symphysodon tarzoo breed?

Substrate or cave spawner with parental care. Often striking; males larger and brighter.