Umbee Cichlid

Kronoheros umbriferus, the Umbee Cichlid or Blue-freckled Cichlid, is native to the Pacific slope rivers of Colombia and Panama. It is one of the largest cichlids found in the Americas, with adult males capable of exceeding 60cm in length and developing a prominent nuchal hump similar to a Flowerhorn's kok. The body is steel grey to olive with hundreds of iridescent electric blue-green spots covering the flanks, head, and fins.

The Umbee is strictly a fish for specialists with large-aquarium experience, as its space requirements, aggression, and bioload are extraordinary. A single adult requires at minimum an 800L aquarium with correspondingly powerful filtration. Despite these demands, the Umbee is one of the most visually impressive large cichlids and is highly prized by collectors.

The Umbee is intelligent and interactive, recognising its keeper and responding vigorously to their presence. It is long-lived with a potential lifespan exceeding 20 years.

Water: 24–28°C, pH 6.5–7.5, soft to moderately hard; enormous water changes required — 50%+ weekly. Tank: 800L minimum for one adult; extremely powerful filtration; large smooth boulders; absolutely no live plants. Feeding: Carnivore; very large cichlid pellets, whole fish, large prawns, and earthworms. Breeding: Bonded pairs are difficult to form; introduction of potential mate risks severe injury or death. Compatibility: Strictly solitary or paired; will consume or severely injure any other fish in the aquarium.