Parachromis motaguensis

Parachromis motaguensis originates from the Motagua and Ulua river drainages of Guatemala and Honduras, occupying large, warm rivers with moderate to fast current. Males in peak breeding condition are breathtaking — a dark base colouration is overlaid with a dense field of vivid red-orange spots, reminiscent of the Jaguar Cichlid but with a more refined, denser spot pattern. Females are less colourful but develop conspicuous black blotching. This powerful predator requires very large aquaria and should be kept only as a solo specimen or bonded pair.

Water: 23–28°C, pH 6.5–8.0, moderately hard (GH 8–20). Tank: Minimum 500L; provide large caves and open swim space; very robust filtration required. Feeding: Carnivore; large cichlid pellets, frozen prawn, mussel, earthworms; avoid constant live feeder fish. Breeding: Open pit spawner; males become very aggressive during courtship; large tank essential for pair safety. Compatibility: Solo or bonded pair only; extremely aggressive toward conspecifics and smaller fish.