Salvin's cichlid

Cichlasoma salvini is a species of the Family Cichlidae. Known also as Salvin's cichlid, the yellow-belly cichlid and the tricolored cichlid, it is an uncommon aquarium fish found in Mexico.

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  male

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  female with fry

Appearance

The Salvin's cichlid is oblong in shape and has a rather pointed mouth compared to other C.A. cichlids. The body is yellow with two lines of black "flowers" along the side and upper half of the back of the fish. These flowers have a blue pearl outline. It has black bars that cross the face, and both sexes have red bellies, which is more pronounced in females, especially when ready to spawn. Females also have a patch in the center of the dorsal fin and a spot on the lower part of the gill cover. Females are smaller than males. Males are duller in color and have longer, more pointed fins. Both male and female become more vibrant during breeding.

Distribution

Salvin's cichlid is found along the eastern coastal rivers and lagoons at lower elevations of Central America, from Mexico south to Honduras. This species is established in Broward County, Florida and has also been found in Texas. The species prefers moderate to fast flowing currents.

Dietary Habits

Salvin's cichlid uses slight jaw protrusion to exploit prey located near riverbeds. Their 8.2% jaw protrusion only allows them to consume 48% of evasive prey.^[1] The Salvini prefers using its jaw protrusion to gouge out the eyes of its prey before devouring it.

Aquarium specimens

Care Requirements

Salvin's cichlid is a very hardy fish, preferring temperatures between 22–27 °C (72–81 °F). They prefer a higher pH of around 8.0, and require the space of at least a 150 litres (33 imp gal; 40 US gal) tank. They grow to approximately 15 centimetres (5.9 in) in length and are quite aggressive toward other fish. They require rocks and logs to hide in, and open swimming space.

Feeding

Salvin's cichlid accepts a wide variety of foods.

External links

• The Salvini Cichlid: Cichlasoma Salvini

References