Macaw Cichlid

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Hypsophrys nicaraguensis
• Common Name: Macaw Cichlid (also called Nicaraguan Cichlid or Nic Cichlid)
• Adult Size: 10–12 inches (25–30 cm) — Males are typically larger than females
• Life Expectancy: 8–10 years, potentially longer with optimal care
• Habitat:
  • Native to lakes, rivers, and streams in Nicaragua and Costa Rica
  • Found in slow-moving or still waters with sandy or muddy substrates

  • Prefers areas with rock formations, driftwood, and aquatic vegetation

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons for a single adult
  75+ gallons recommended for pairs or community setups
• Ideal Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• pH Range: 7.0–8.0
• Water Hardness: 8–20 dGH

• Temperament: Generally peaceful for a cichlid
  Can coexist with other robust, similarly sized fish
  Becomes territorial during spawning

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous
• Balanced diet should include:
  • High-quality cichlid pellets
  • Frozen/live foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, earthworms
  • Vegetable matter: spirulina flakes, blanched spinach or zucchini

• Avoid overfeeding protein; too much can affect health

Breeding & Spawning

• Biparental substrate spawners
• Form strong pair bonds
• Female lays eggs on flat surfaces like rocks or large leaves
• Both parents aggressively protect the eggs and fry
• Eggs hatch in 2–3 days, fry become free-swimming after about 5 days

• Provide plenty of hiding spots for fry or separate them for better survival

Appearance

• Body color ranges from golden yellow to metallic turquoise
• Brilliant blue-green hues with orange or red accents, especially on the belly and fins
• Black vertical bars or a lateral blotch may be visible depending on mood and lighting

• Fins are often edged in blue or red, particularly in mature males

Distinctive Features

• One of the most colorful Central American cichlids
• Males develop elongated dorsal and anal fins
• Known for their calm demeanor compared to other cichlids

• Great centerpiece fish in a well-decorated aquarium