Species Profile
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Honduran Red Point Cichlid

Accuracy: Verified
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This profile has completed research review. Source-backed care information is shown below. Final publication checks are still pending.
Species profile

Honduran Red Point Cichlid

Amatitlania sp. 'Honduran Red Point'
Semi aggressive Moderate care 150 L minimum aquarium 8–12 cm adult size Bottom–mid Can be kept singly

About this species

General notes for hobby use.

The aquarium 'Honduran Red Point' lineage is widely associated with Amatitlania siquia, but its taxonomic status remains disputed. Preserve it as a trade/locality form rather than forcing a settled species assignment.

Water parameters

Suggested general range for long-term care.

Temperature 24–28 °C
pH 7–8
GH 8–20 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 Bottom–mid
Territory level High
Predation risk Small fish
Bioload factor 2.5
Usually less brutal than some convict-type cichlids, but a breeding pair can dominate a 100 cm tank. Small peaceful fish and invertebrates are inappropriate.

Compatibility flags

Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.

Fin nipper No
Plant safe Yes
Shrimp safe No / caution
Snail safe Yes
Cave breeder Yes
Digs substrate Yes
Jump risk Low

Natural history & care

Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.

Lifespan 6–10 years
Diet type Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume 150 L
Minimum footprint 100 × 40 cm
Alternative names Honduran Red Point, Honduras Redpoint, Amatitlania siquia 'Honduras Red Point' (contested assignment)
Native range
Honduras; aquarium lineage associated with the Rio Danlí locality.
Natural habitat
Central American stream cichlid. Use sand or fine gravel, rocks/wood and multiple caves with hard-to-moderately-hard alkaline water and robust filtration.
Diet & feeding
Generalist omnivore. Feed quality cichlid foods supplemented with vegetable matter, crustaceans, insects and frozen foods.

Breeding & sexing

Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.

Sexing
Females are generally smaller and show stronger orange/red abdominal colour; males become larger with longer fins and a more robust head profile.
Breeding
Prolific cave/substrate spawner. A pair cleans a protected site and both parents guard eggs and fry; breeding aggression is much stronger than day-to-day behaviour.