Green terror

Aequidens rivulatus

Family : Cichlidae

FishFreshwatercichlid-south-america

Large South American cichlid with metallic green body, known for its aggression and beauty.

Green terror — photo 1 sur 1
Hans Dam · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.01 / 1
Popularity
Biotope specialist
requires biotope recreation
Availability
Specialty only
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern
Biotope
South America
Hors bassin amazonien : Paraná, Orénoque, Andes.

Description

The green terror reaches 20-25 cm. It has a robust body of bright green with blue iridescence and an orange-red caudal fin. Males are larger and have a prominent nuchal hump. It is very territorial and aggressive, especially towards conspecifics. It lives in pairs and digs the substrate. In the aquarium, it requires a large volume and hiding places. Breeding is relatively easy.

Habitat

Region :

Clear, well-oxygenated rivers and streams, rocky areas

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2428 °C
pH6.57.5
GH515 °dGH
KH310 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 30 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 1 mg/L

Care

Difficulty
3/5
Diet
Carnivore
Min. tank
300 L
Min. group
2
Adult size
25 cm
Lifespan
10 years
Temperament
Aggressive
Propagation

Care notes

At least 300 liters for a pair. Neutral to slightly alkaline water (pH 6.5-7.5), temperature 24-28°C, GH 5-15. Carnivorous/omnivorous diet: pellets, fish, shrimp, worms. Can coexist with other large robust cichlids, but avoid smaller fish. Sandy substrate and rocks are needed. Breeding is simple, parents guard eggs. Monitor nitrates (max 30 mg/L) and phosphates (max 1 mg/L).

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References