Species profile
Rainbow Cichlid
Herotilapia multispinosa
Semi aggressive
Easy care
150 L minimum aquarium
10–12.5 cm adult size
Mid bottom
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Relatively peaceful Central American cichlid; a bonded pair still needs a clear breeding territory.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–28 °C
pH
7–8
GH
Up to 25 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
Moderate
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
1.8
Generally manageable for a cichlid, but colour and territorial behaviour intensify during courtship and fry care.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
Yes
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
150 L
Minimum footprint
90 × 45 cm
Accepted scientific name
Herotilapia multispinosa
Alternative names
Rainbow Cichlid
Native range
Central America from Honduras and Nicaragua into Costa Rica.
Natural habitat
Occurs in lakes, ponds, streams and slower river sections with vegetation, wood, rock and soft substrate.
Diet & feeding
Flexible omnivore with a strong plant/algal component; provide vegetable-rich prepared food plus varied invertebrate foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature males tend to be larger with more extended fins; females are often rounder through the abdomen.
Breeding
Biparental substrate spawner; pairs clean a hard surface and jointly guard eggs, wrigglers and free-swimming fry.