Texas Cichlid - (Herichthys cyanoguttatus)

🐟 Texas Cichlid – (Herichthys cyanoguttatus) – North America’s Native Cichlid for Sale

The Texas Cichlid (Herichthys cyanoguttatus) is the only cichlid species native to the United States, found in the warm rivers of southern Texas and northern Mexico. It is well-known for its iridescent turquoise-blue spots scattered over a silver-to-pearl white body, along with its confident and active personality. A hardy and adaptable fish, the Texas Cichlid makes a bold centerpiece for large aquariums but is best kept with robust tankmates due to its territorial nature.

🔎 Quick Facts – Texas Cichlid (Herichthys cyanoguttatus)

• 📛 Common Name: Texas Cichlid, Rio Grande Cichlid
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Herichthys cyanoguttatus
• 🌍 Origin: Southern Texas (USA) & Northeastern Mexico
• 🎨 Appearance: Silver-white body with metallic turquoise spots; breeding males may develop a nuchal hump and more intense colors
• 📏 Max Size: 10–12 inches (25–30 cm)
• 💎 Availability: Common in the aquarium trade; popular with North American fish enthusiasts

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• ⚔️ Semi-aggressive to aggressive; territorial during breeding
• 🐟 Best housed with other large, equally robust fish
• 🌿 Active swimmer with bold, curious personality

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 75+ gallons
• 🪵 Provide rock structures, driftwood, and hiding places
• 🪨 Secure décor as fish may dig and rearrange substrate
• 💡 Moderate to bright lighting enhances their iridescent spots

💧 Water Parameters – Texas Cichlid Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.5–8.0
• 💧 Hardness: Moderate to hard water

🍽️ Diet – Omnivorous Cichlid

• 🐟 High-quality cichlid pellets
• 🦐 Frozen or live foods such as shrimp, krill, and bloodworms
• 🌽 Vegetable matter like spirulina pellets or blanched vegetables
• 🚫 Avoid excessive fatty foods to maintain health

📋 Texas Cichlid Overview Table

✨ Highlight:
The Texas Cichlid is a bold, beautiful, and historically significant fish—the only cichlid native to the United States—making it a must-have for cichlid enthusiasts and collectors.