Istlanum Cichlid (Cichlasoma istlanum)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameCichlasoma istlanum

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asBalsas Cichlid, Red Istlanum, Istlana

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentAggressive

DietCarnivore

Adult size11 in

Minimum tank size90 gallons

Water parametersTemp 75-82°F, pH 7.0-8.0, GH 8-25 dGH

Appearance

Robust cichlid flushing red-orange over a grey-green base with dark blotching; vivid red in dominant/breeding individuals.

Difficulty and care for the Istlanum Cichlid

Moderate

Origin and habitat

Central America (Balsas drainage, Mexico)

Keeper notes

Aggressive Mexican cichlid; territorial and predatory toward smaller fish, especially when in breeding color.

Log Istlanum Cichlid in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Istlanum Cichlid alongside everything else in your reef.

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