Species profile
Texas Cichlid
Herichthys cyanoguttatus
Aggressive
Moderate care
400 L minimum aquarium
20–30 cm adult size
Mid bottom
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Large powerful North/Central American cichlid requiring a broad footprint, strong filtration and very stable rock/wood decor. It is not the same species as the Pearlscale/Green Texas, Herichthys carpintis.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
20–30 °C
pH
6–7.8
GH
5–12 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
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
4.5
Highly territorial, especially as a breeding pair. Usually best singly or with carefully selected robust large tankmates in considerably larger systems.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Caution
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
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
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
400 L
Minimum footprint
150 × 60 cm
Accepted scientific name
Herichthys cyanoguttatus
Alternative names
Rio Grande Cichlid, True Texas Cichlid
Native range
Lower Rio Grande drainage in Texas and northeastern Mexico.
Natural habitat
Occurs in warm rivers and related waters, often around vegetation and structured margins. Aquarium decor must tolerate digging and territorial rearrangement.
Diet & feeding
Natural diet includes worms, crustaceans, insects and plant material. Use complete cichlid pellets with varied invertebrate and vegetable foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are typically larger and may develop a nuchal hump; mature females are usually smaller, but individual variation makes venting more reliable.
Breeding
Biparental substrate spawner with intense territory defence. Provide substantial separation from tankmates if a pair forms.