Hypsophrys nicaraguensis

Females keep a black lateral stripe; males often show just one black flank spot.

Females often have stronger colors and retain a black lateral stripe. In males, this stripe often reduces to a single black flank spot, and mature males may develop a small forehead hump.

Adult length

Up to 25 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)

Water temperature

23–28 °C

Lifespan

5–7 years

pH

7–8

Hardness

8–20 dGH

Native range

Central America: Atlantic slope, from the San Juan drainage, including Lake Nicaragua, in Costa Rica and Nicaragua, to the Matina River drainage in Costa Rica.

Natural habitat

Inhabits lakes and rivers with slow to moderate current.

Can become large; avoid particularly aggressive tankmates. Color varies with provenance.