Mayan Cichlid (Mayaheros urophthalmus)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Mayan Cichlid

Quick facts

Scientific nameMayaheros urophthalmus
FamilyCichlidae
Also known asMayaheros uropthalmus, Cichlasoma urophthalmus, Nandopsis urophthalmus, Orange Tiger
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentAggressive
DietCarnivore
Adult size12 in
Minimum tank size75 gallons
Water parametersTemp 75-86°F, pH 7.0-8.2, GH 8-30 dGH

Appearance

Robust cichlid with green-gold flanks, 6-8 dark vertical bars, and a distinctive ocellated 'eye' spot on the caudal peduncle.

Difficulty and care for the Mayan Cichlid

Moderate

Origin and habitat

Central America (Atlantic slope, Mexico to Nicaragua)

Keeper notes

Hardy, adaptable and aggressive; tolerates brackish water. Territorial and predatory toward smaller fish.

Log Mayan 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 Mayan Cichlid alongside everything else in your reef.