Cichlasoma Friedrichstahlii 5cm

Cichlasoma Friedrichstahlii

Cichlasoma friedrichsthalii, commonly known as the Friedrichsthal's cichlid is an aggressive, moderately sized species from the rivers and lakes of Central America, particularly found in regions spanning from Mexico to Costa Rica. These fish have vibrant colouration and are a perfect predatory species for aquarists who do not have too much space for massive fish. These would be a great species to have as a wet pet or for cichlid collectors to add to their collections.

The Friedrichsthal's cichlid has a striking appearance with a bright yellow body colouration that dynamically changes to a deep greenish to a bluish hue. This is accented by a series of darker vertical bars and a characteristic bright blue ring around the eye. These fish look quite similar to yellow jacket cichlids whilst being smaller in size. Males typically exhibit more vibrant colours and develop longer, more pointed dorsal and anal fins as they mature. Females, while slightly less colourful and smaller, still display the species' distinctive bright blue eye ring and share the attractive patterning of their male counterparts.

Breeding Cichlasoma friedrichsthalii can be a great experience for the dedicated aquarist. Like many cichlids, they exhibit fascinating parental behaviors. The species is known for being substrate spawners and both parents actively participate in egg-laying, and guarding along fry-rearing processes. The breeding pair cleans a flat surface where the female lays her eggs, and then the male fertilises them. Post-hatching, both parents guard the fry regularly, often moving them to pre-dug pits in the substrate for protection.

Tank Recommendations for your Cichlasoma friedrichsthalii
A suitably sized aquarium for keeping Friedrichsthal's cichlid would be a minimum of 200 liters, allowing enough space for these active fish to swim and establish territories. The aquarium should mimic their natural environment, incorporating a substrate of sand or fine gravel, along with rocks, driftwood, and caves to provide essential hiding spots and breeding sites. Plants can be included but should be robust or securely planted as these cichlids may dig. Water conditions should be maintained with a pH range of 7.0 to 8.0 and temperatures between 24-28°C.

Suitable Tank Buddies
Given their somewhat territorial and aggressive nature, especially during breeding, careful consideration should be given to tank mates. They are best housed with fish of similar size and temperament.

Usually Compatible
Other medium-sized Central American cichlids such as fire mouths, jaguar cichlids, and oscars.

Sometimes Compatible
Larger tetras, and robust barbs that can hold their own without competing directly for territory.

Rarely Compatible
Small, peaceful fish that could be seen as prey such as tetras. Larger aggressive species like Dovii should be avoided too.

Feeding your Cichlasoma friedrichsthalii
Friedrichsthal's cichlids in general are by far one of the easiest fish to feed. They will eat any aquarium food given to them all the way from pellets to frozen foods. Their diet should contain good quality floating or sinking pellets with high protein content.

This should be supplemented with frozen foods such as bloodworms. One thing to note is that they are messy eaters so feeding flakes might not be a good option. Feeding should occur once a day and it is best to do so during the day.