Green terror
Aequidens rivulatus
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.
Recommended parameters
| Parameter | Recommended range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 24–28 |
| pH | 6.5–7.5 |
| GH | 5–15 |
| KH | 3–10 |
| NO₃ | ≤ 30 |
| PO₄ | ≤ 1 |
Care
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).