Heros notatus

Heros notatus is found across the Orinoco basin and parts of the Guiana Shield, inhabiting slow-moving rivers and flooded forest areas. It is distinguished from H. efasciatus by a pattern of small dark spots concentrated on the lower flanks rather than vertical banding. The cream to olive body takes on a golden lustre under warm aquarium lighting. Mature males develop a pronounced nuchal hump and grow noticeably larger than females. Despite its size, this is a relatively peaceful species that does well in a well-structured large aquarium.

Water: 24–29°C, pH 5.5–7.2, soft to moderately hard (GH 3–12). Tank: Minimum 400L; robust driftwood, large rocks, and a mix of open and sheltered areas. Feeding: Omnivore; spirulina-based cichlid pellets, leafy greens, frozen prawn, and bloodworm. Breeding: Pairs spawn on flat smooth surfaces; both parents are attentive and defend fry aggressively. Compatibility: Generally peaceful; compatible with large tetras, catfish, and other similarly-sized cichlids.