Managua Cichlid

Parachromis loisellei is distributed across Atlantic-slope rivers and coastal lagoons of Honduras and Nicaragua. It is the smallest of the Parachromis species but still reaches an impressive 35 cm. Its colouration consists of scattered dark spots on a golden-silver body, resembling a subdued version of the Jaguar Cichlid. It shares the ferocious territorial behaviour characteristic of the genus and requires expert-level care and large aquariums.

Water: 24–30°C, pH 7.0–8.0, moderate to hard (GH 10–20). Tank: 500L+ for adults; minimal decor; powerful filtration essential. Feeding: Carnivore; large pellets, whole fish, earthworms, and large crustaceans; 2–3x weekly. Behaviour: Highly aggressive; territorial toward other fish; most manageable when kept alone. Compatibility: Species-only; possible with very large robust cichlids in 800L+ setups under close supervision.