Red Devil Cichlid

Overview

• Scientific Name: Amphilophus labiatus
• Common Names: Red Devil Cichlid, Red Devil, Cichlid Devil
• Family: Cichlidae
• Origin: Native to Central America, particularly found in lakes and rivers in Nicaragua and Costa Rica.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Red Devil Cichlids can grow quite large, typically reaching lengths of 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm) in captivity, though some individuals may grow larger.
• Coloration: They are known for their vibrant colors, which can range from bright orange to red, often with darker spots or stripes. Some may also have a more muted appearance, depending on their environment and genetics.
• Body Shape: They have a robust, oval-shaped body with a pronounced forehead, which becomes more pronounced as they mature. Males tend to have a more pronounced nuchal hump than females.

Behavior

• Temperament: Red Devil Cichlids are aggressive and territorial, especially during breeding. They are considered one of the more aggressive cichlid species and can be quite dominant in a tank.
• Sociability: They can be kept in larger tanks with other robust fish but may harass smaller or more peaceful species.
• Activity Level: They are active swimmers and enjoy exploring their environment.

Habitat and Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 75 gallons is recommended for a single Red Devil Cichlid. A larger tank (100 gallons or more) is ideal for keeping multiple fish or a community setup.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C)
  • pH Level: 6.5 to 8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
  • Water Hardness: 10 to 20 dGH
• Substrate: A sandy or fine gravel substrate is ideal, as it allows them to dig and create territories.
• Tank Setup:
  • Provide plenty of hiding spots using rocks, caves, and driftwood to help reduce stress and establish territories.
  • Ensure strong filtration to maintain water quality, as they produce a significant amount of waste.

Diet

• Feeding: Red Devil Cichlids are omnivores, requiring a balanced diet:
  • High-quality cichlid pellets or flakes should be the mainstay of their diet.
  • Supplement with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small fish.
  • Include vegetable matter, such as blanched zucchini or spirulina flakes, for added nutrition.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed once or twice daily, offering enough food that can be consumed within a few minutes.

Breeding

• Breeding Behavior: Red Devil Cichlids can breed in captivity, usually forming monogamous pairs.
  • They require flat surfaces like rocks or broad leaves for laying eggs.
  • Both parents may care for the eggs and fry, protecting them from potential threats.
• Fry Care: The eggs typically hatch in about 3 to 5 days, and the fry will need to be fed infusoria or finely crushed flake food once they become free-swimming.

Compatibility

• Tank Mates: Suitable tank mates for Red Devil Cichlids include:
  • Other large, robust cichlids (like Jack Dempsey or Midas Cichlids)
  • Larger catfish (like Plecos or Synodontis species)
• Avoid keeping them with smaller or more peaceful fish, as they may be bullied or attacked.

Lifespan

• Lifespan: With proper care, Red Devil Cichlids can live for 10 to 15 years in captivity.

Health Considerations

• Common Diseases: Red Devil Cichlids can be susceptible to various freshwater fish diseases, including Ich and fin rot.
• Water Quality Sensitivity: They are sensitive to poor water conditions, so regular maintenance and water changes are essential to keep them healthy.

Interesting Facts

1. Distinct Personalities: Red Devil Cichlids are known for their unique personalities and can become quite interactive with their owners, often recognizing them.
2. Aggressive Nature: They are named for their devilish behavior; this can include digging, rearranging decorations, and showing aggression towards other fish.
3. Color Variation: The intensity of their color can vary significantly based on factors like diet, water quality, and individual genetics.