Species profile
Jaguar Cichlid
Parachromis managuensis
Aggressive
Hard care
680 L minimum aquarium
35–45 cm adult size
Mid bottom
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Very aggressive predator. Eats tankmates that fit in its mouth; needs huge tank.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
23–28 °C
pH
6–8
GH
6–18 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Mid bottom
Territory level
High
Predation risk
Small fish
Bioload factor
5.5
Very large, predatory and territorial cichlid. Adults require an aquarium planned around their size and aggression, not a generic 500 L cichlid minimum.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Caution
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
No / caution
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
Yes
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
680 L
Minimum footprint
180 × 60 cm
Accepted scientific name
Parachromis managuensis
Alternative names
Jaguar Cichlid, Jaguar Guapote, Managuense Cichlid
Native range
Central America, native principally to Nicaragua and neighbouring Honduras/Costa Rica; introduced widely elsewhere.
Natural habitat
Lakes, ponds and springs, often over mud, sand or detritus and including warm turbid/eutrophic waters. Provide heavy-duty filtration, robust décor and large open territory.
Diet & feeding
Strong piscivore/macroinvertebrate predator. Use complete large-cichlid foods with varied frozen/aquatic animal foods rather than feeder fish.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature males are substantially larger, often with stronger head profile and fin extensions; females remain smaller and can show stronger pattern during breeding.
Breeding
Biparental substrate spawner; large clutches are laid on cleaned rock or other hard surfaces and both parents guard intensely.