Festivum Cichlid 3.5cm

Festivum Cichlid
 

The usual stocking consideration for a peaceful and larger growing cichlid is usually angelfish but for the aquarists looking for something a bit different yet still eye-catching the festival is a perfect choice. This beautiful South American cichlid carries a lot of the personality that species like angelfish or severum carry whilst still sporting a wild and unique flare. 

Festivums are easily recognized by their oval and laterally compressed body shape. They also have set off long pelvic fins which are almost the length of the fish itself. As the fish glides through the water these fins shimmer and are shown off well. Colouration wise the festivum cichlid has a wild but contrasting aesthetic. Sporting an olive-green base colour the festivum has a stunning jade iridescence through the body. They also have highlights of yellow and striking red eyes, their most recognizable feature is the curved black line that travels from the mouth to the tip of the dorsal fin. Festivums reach around 15 which makes them great for larger community tanks or a species-only biotope-style aquarium to show off their wild appearance.  

Breeding festivums in the home aquarium is relatively easy. It’s usually best to get a group of 6 or more fish to see if they naturally pair off, males tend to develop a light nuchal hump and have longer, pointed fins than females. They will find a smooth surface to lay eggs on and then proceed to guard them until they are free swimming. If you have experience breeding angelfish then festivums will be a breeze. 

Tank Recommendations for your Festivum

Festivums do reach around hand size when fully grown and the ideal tank size for just a pair would be a 150-litre aquarium however a group would thrive is a tank of 450 litres. They are perfectly plant-safe and will love the cover that aquatic plants and driftwood will provide. Festivum cichlids will also not be fussy at all with the substrate choice as they spend almost all their time in the mid to top portions of the aquarium. 

Suitable Tank Buddies

The festivum cichlid is relatively peaceful with very slight territorial aggression however it is not an active predator by any means and can be kept with small fish and other peaceful cichlids.
 

Usually Compatible

Corydora, red eye tetras, places, lemon tetras, angelfish, severum, Uaru, rams, giant danios, and other peaceful species. 

Sometimes Compatible

cardinal tetras, endlers, green neon tetras, and other very small or slow-moving fish have a slight risk of being eaten.

Rarely Compatible

Festivums have been kept successfully with large Oscars before however any highly aggressive species such as jaguar cichlids, Red Devils, and saratoga. 

Feeding your Festivum Cichlid

Festivums are incredibly easy to feed. They take to a wide range of foods and should have a varied diet for optimal health. Giving them an assortment of flakes, pellets, and frozen and live foods will not only make them thrive but also show off amazing colours. Because of their top-dwelling nature, they should be given foods that readily float for them to eat easily.