Red Tiger Motaguense - (Parachromis motaguensis)

🐟 Red Tiger Motaguense – (Parachromis motaguensis) – Striking and Powerful Central American Cichlid for Sale

The Red Tiger Motaguense (Parachromis motaguensis) is a bold and beautiful large predatory cichlid native to Honduras and Guatemala. Known for its vivid red-orange body, black vertical barring, and striking iridescent blue/green spangling, this species is both a visual showpiece and a highly intelligent predator.

Motaguense cichlids are powerful, territorial, and best suited for experienced keepers who can provide them with the space, diet, and tankmates they require.

🔎 Quick Facts – Red Tiger Motaguense (Parachromis motaguensis)

• 📛 Common Names: Red Tiger Motaguense, Motaguense Cichlid, False Jaguar Cichlid
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Parachromis motaguensis
• 🌍 Origin: Honduras and Guatemala
• 🎨 Appearance: Red-orange base with dark barring and blue/green iridescent flecks
• 📏 Max Size: 12–14 inches (30–35 cm)
• 💎 Availability: Occasionally available; often wild-caught or selectively bred for enhanced red coloration

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• ⚔️ Highly aggressive and territorial, especially during breeding
• 🐟 Predatory—will eat smaller tankmates that fit in its mouth
• 👫 Can be kept as a bonded pair, but mate aggression is common
• 🪵 Extremely intelligent and responsive to owners

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 125+ gallons for a single, 180+ gallons for a pair
• 🪵 Large rocks, caves, and driftwood for territory
• 🌿 Plants should be hardy or artificial (may be uprooted)
• 💡 Moderate lighting to enhance colors
• 🌊 Strong filtration for heavy bio-load

💧 Water Parameters – Red Tiger Motaguense Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 7.0–8.0
• 💧 Hardness: Medium to hard water

🍽️ Diet – Carnivorous Predator

• 🦐 Frozen shrimp, krill, and fish fillets
• 🪱 Earthworms, insect larvae, and high-protein pellets
• 🚫 Avoid feeder fish to prevent parasites/disease

📋 Red Tiger Motaguense Care Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Red Tiger Motaguense is a ferocious yet breathtakingly colorful predator that thrives in large, well-structured aquariums with keepers who appreciate its commanding presence and fiery personality.