Cincelichthys pearsei

Cincelichthys pearsei is distributed across the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico and adjacent Belize, inhabiting slow-moving rivers, lagoons, and cenote-connected water systems. Its pattern of dark spots scattered over a greenish-grey body is distinctive within its range. The species is somewhat reminiscent of Rocio octofasciata in body shape and behaviour, being moderately territorial but manageable in a well-structured aquarium. It adapts well to a range of moderately hard, neutral to alkaline water conditions — reflecting the carbonate-rich nature of its karstic home waters.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 7.0–8.2, moderately hard (GH 8–20); alkaline conditions suit Yucatan karstic waters. Tank: Minimum 300L; rocks, caves, and driftwood; sand or gravel substrate. Feeding: Omnivore; cichlid pellets, frozen bloodworm, prawn, and occasional vegetable supplement. Breeding: Open substrate spawner on flat rocks; both parents actively guard eggs and fry. Compatibility: With similarly sized robust Central American cichlids; avoids very aggressive species.