Think Fish - The Tropical Fish Keeping Resource

Fish Database: Festive Cichlid - Mesonauta festivus

Aquarium requirements

Aquarium suitability: 3/5
Sociability rating: 6/10
Area of tank: Middle, all
Aquarium water conditions: 6-8.5, vs,s,m,h
Temperature: 24 - 30C
Feeding: Flake, frozen, live, vegetable foods
Minimum tank size: 120cm
Min / Max number in tank: Min 2

Fish fact file

Family: Cichlidae (Cichlids)
Synonyms: Acara festiva, Cichlasoma festivum, Mesonauta festiva, M. festivum, Heros festivus
Other common names: Flag cichlid, barred cichlid, festivum
Origin: South America; Parana, Amazon River basins
Natural habitat: Vegetated river or stream banks
Size: 15cm
Behavior: Peaceful, timid, territorial, pair forming
Breeding: Spawning occurs on smooth objects after parents clean the area. Both parents guard eggs and brood.
Natural water conditions: pH 6-8, very soft to soft
Sexing: Males may have longer pointed fins, although this is not always accurate

Fish code No.1104

Recently Viewed fish: Festive Cichlid

The Festive Cichlid may not be as colourful as many other aquarium fish but being a cichlid, has plenty of personality and will soon grow on those who observe it. Festive Cichlids should be mixed with care, on the one hand they are timid and easily frightened fish whilst on the other they will grow to a reasonable size and can become territorial and even aggressive when breeding. Good tank mates would include robust fish of a similar size that are also relatively peaceful. Festive Cichlids should be kept in aquariums with plenty of hiding spots amongst rocks, wood, or plants and good water quality. A varied diet will improve overall health.

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