Mesonauta mirificus

Mesonauta mirificus is a Peruvian Amazonian festivum cichlid notable for its particularly deep, laterally compressed body and more intensely developed banding compared to congeners. The diagonal stripe is prominent, and the flanks carry fine iridescent scaling in gold and green hues. It is one of the less commonly available Mesonauta species, occasionally appearing in specialist shipments from Peru. Peaceful and herbivorous, it fits well in a large planted South American biotope and makes an excellent companion for angelfish and discus.

Water: 24–29°C, pH 5.5–7.0, soft (GH 2–10). Tank: Minimum 250L; Peruvian biotope with driftwood, floating plants, and gentle flow. Feeding: Omnivore; plant-based cichlid pellets, blanched vegetables, frozen bloodworm, and brine shrimp. Breeding: Leaf or flat-surface spawner; both parents exhibit devoted parental behaviour. Compatibility: Excellent with angelfish, discus, large tetras, and peaceful armoured catfish.