Festivum Cichlid

Care

The Festive Cichlid is a timid and relatively peaceful species that should be housed in aquariums 3ft long or more, and with plenty of hiding places amongst robust plants and bogwood. Due to their adult size, they should not be kept with small fish e.g. Neon Tetras, as these will eventually become a snack. They can however, be kept with larger ‘deeper-bodied’ species of Tetra or other medium-sized peaceful South American cichlid species (if enough space is provided). Boisterous tankmates must be avoided to ensure that the Festive Cichlids are confident enough to come out and feed. Compatible pairs are likely to become territorial towards other fish when in breeding mode. Sensitive to less-than-ideal water conditions, frequent partial water changes are a must. In the wild, Festive Cichlids are found close to the banks of slow-moving waters, amongst networks of tall plants. They have been observed alongside Angelfish in their natural habitat. The coloration of this species may vary depending on the original collection location. May also be seen on sale as Festivum or Flag Cichlid.

Although all share a common name, a number of species may be encountered in the hobby with differences in fin colouration and country of origin being the best way to differentiate them. It's best not to mix fishes from different locations to avoid accidental hybridisation.

Feeding

Flake, green flake, slow-sinking pellets, lettuce, spinach, frozen foods such as mosquito larvae, brineshrimp, Mysis shrimp etc.