Care
The Festive Cichlid is a timid and relatively peaceful species that should be housed in aquariums 3ft long or more, and with plenty of hiding places amongst robust plants and bogwood. Due to their adult size, they should not be kept with small fish e.g. Neon Tetras, as these will eventually become a snack. They can however, be kept with larger "deeper-bodied" species of Tetra or other medium-sized peaceful South American cichlid species (if enough space is provided). Boisterous tankmates must be avoided to ensure that the Festive Cichlids are confident enough to come out and feed. Compatible pairs are likely to become territorial towards other fish when in breeding mode. Sensitive to less-than-ideal water conditions, frequent partial water changes are a must. In the wild, Festive Cichlids are found close to the banks of slow-moving waters, amongst networks of tall plants. They have been observed alongside Angelfish in their natural habitat. The coloration of this species may vary depending on the original collection location. May also be seen on sale as Festivum or Flag Cichlid.
Although all share a common name, a number of species may be encountered in the hobby with differences in fin colouration and country of origin being the best way to differentiate them. It's best not to mix fishes from different locations to avoid accidental hybridisation.
Feeding
Flake, green flake, slow-sinking pellets, lettuce, spinach, frozen foods such as mosquito larvae, brineshrimp, Mysis shrimp etc.
Breeding
Difficult. The spawning aquarium should be set up with soft, slightly acidic water, and with the temperature set at the high end of the preferred range. A well-conditioned pair are likely to spawn on flat surfaces, so ensure that there are small pieces of slate stood upright against the back glass of the aquarium, along with some broad-leaved plants. The pair will clean the spawning site (either slate or plant leaves) and up to 1000 eggs will be laid/fertilised. The parents will guard the eggs, which will hatch within 48 hours. These wrigglers will hang from the spawning site for a further 48-72 hours, after which time they will become free-swimming. The parents will protect the fry, so there is no need to remove them. The young can be offered crushed flake and baby brineshrimp.
