Cichlasoma egregius

Cichlasoma egregius is a rare South American cichlid from the Orinoco drainage with a proud, robust body plan and a complex pattern of dark lateral banding overlaid with metallic iridescence on each scale. It is less commonly encountered in the hobby than Cichlasoma orinocense or related species and is prized accordingly. The species is adaptable regarding water chemistry within a soft to moderately hard range, becoming more colourful in slightly acidic conditions with tannins. It forms strong pair bonds and becomes highly territorial during spawning, requiring a suitably spacious aquarium.

Water: 24–29°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderately hard (GH 4–14). Tank: Minimum 300L; driftwood, caves, and leaf litter; sand substrate preferred. Feeding: Omnivore; high-quality cichlid pellets, frozen bloodworm, prawn, and occasional vegetable matter. Breeding: Open or pit spawner; both parents are attentive and vigorous defenders of eggs and fry. Compatibility: With similarly sized robust South American cichlids; avoid small fish.