Heros efasciatus

Common forms include green fish and a selectively bred gold form.

Common forms include green fish and a selectively bred gold form. Mature males are larger, with more prominent gill-cover markings and potentially elongated dorsal and anal fins.

Adult length: Up to 30 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)
Water temperature: 22.2–28.9 °C
Lifespan: 10–13 years
pH: 5.5–7
Hardness: 1–8 dGH

Natural habitat: Recorded from flooded still-water habitats and tidal estuaries, often along densely vegetated banks.

Juveniles grow relatively quickly into large fish, and small tankmates are unsuitable. Do not choose a long-term aquarium based on juvenile size.

View comparison →

Social behaviour and territory

Usually relatively peaceful compared with similarly sized cichlids, but territorial during breeding. Some adults may still attack companions.

Diet and feeding

Omnivorous. Combine formulated pellets with animal foods such as shrimp and earthworms, and plant foods such as peas and spinach.

Sources