Green Terror Cichlid

Andinoacara rivulatus, the Green Terror Cichlid, is a large and visually stunning South American cichlid from the Pacific drainage rivers of Ecuador and Peru. Mature males develop a striking iridescent metallic green and blue scale pattern with vivid orange fin edges and, in dominant individuals, a pronounced nuchal hump that gives the head a distinctive heroic profile. Despite its reputation for aggression, properly maintained pairs in large aquariums can coexist with other robust, large cichlids.

Requires a large aquarium (minimum 300 L for a pair) with robust decor, caves, and territory boundaries. Maintain pH 6.5–8.0, temperature 22–25°C, moderate hardness. Feed a high-protein diet: quality cichlid pellets, frozen shrimp, frozen mussel, and earthworms. Highly territorial during breeding; pairs may need to be isolated. Safe to keep with similarly-sized, equally assertive Central and South American cichlids in large tanks.