Nautla cichlid - (Hericthys Deppi)

🐟 Nautla Cichlid (Herichthys deppi)

The Nautla Cichlid is a striking Central American cichlid known for its vibrant colors and bold patterning. This species is semi-aggressive, making it best suited for species-specific or carefully planned community tanks with similarly sized fish. With proper care and water conditions, the Nautla Cichlid can display its full range of colors and patterns, making it a showpiece in any aquarium.

🔎 Quick Facts

• 📛 Common Name: Nautla Cichlid
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Herichthys deppi
• 🎨 Appearance: Olive-green to gray body with vertical bars and bright blue and orange highlights
• 📏 Max Size: 8–10 inches (20–25 cm)

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• ⚔️ Semi-aggressive; territorial, especially during breeding
• 🤝 Can be kept with similarly sized, robust tankmates
• 🪵 Appreciates rocks, caves, and driftwood for territories
• 🌙 Active throughout the day

🏠 Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons (larger for pairs or groups)
• 🪵 Provide plenty of hiding spots, rocks, and caves
• 🌊 Moderate water flow
• 💡 Moderate lighting

💧 Water Parameters

• 🌡️ Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 7.0–8.0
• 💧 Moderate hardness

🍽️ Diet

• 🐟 Omnivorous: pellets, flakes, frozen or live foods
• 🌿 Occasional vegetables and plant matter

🔍 Sexing

• 👨 Males: Larger, more colorful, and may develop nuchal hump
• 👩 Females: Smaller, slightly less colorful

📋 Overview Table

✨ Snippet:

• ⚔️ Semi-aggressive and territorial
• 🪵 Needs rocks, caves, and driftwood for territories
• 🐟 Omnivorous diet with pellets, live/frozen foods, and veggies
• 🌡️ Thrives in warm, moderately hard water
• 🌈 Vibrant colors and patterns, especially in mature males