All our fish, shrimp and corals are bagged with fresh oxygen as well as a heat pack in winter.
When ordering livestock please select the box size and add it to your cart for accurate overnight (1-2 days) shipping costs. A small box can take 1-2 bags and a medium box 6 bags. One bag fits max 10 small (1-3cm) fish or max 2 medium (3-5cm) fish or max 1 large (>5cm) fish.
ONE SPECIES PER BAG. Eg: One bag of 10 neon tetra.
Texas Cichlid (Herichthys cyanoguttatus)
Description:
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Appearance:
- Body: Large and robust with a somewhat elongated, oval-shaped body.
- Color: Typically features a greenish-gray to light brown base color with blue or turquoise spots and sometimes red or orange highlights, especially on the fins. Some individuals may show a more pronounced pattern of spots and stripes.
- Size: Can grow up to 12-16 inches (30-40 cm) in length, though some individuals may reach 18 inches (45 cm) in larger tanks.
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Behavior:
- Activity: Active and territorial. Known for their assertive and sometimes aggressive behavior, especially as they mature.
- Social Structure: Can be kept with other large, robust fish that can tolerate their territorial nature. They may exhibit aggression towards other cichlids or similar-sized fish.
Care Requirements:
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Tank Size:
- Minimum of 75 gallons (284 liters); larger tanks are recommended to provide ample space for swimming and territorial behavior.
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Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C).
- pH: 6.5-7.5.
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water conditions but can tolerate a range.
- Filtration: Strong filtration is crucial due to their high waste output. A high-capacity filter or multiple filters is recommended to maintain clean water and provide adequate water movement.
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Tank Setup:
- Substrate: Sand or large gravel is ideal. They may sift through the substrate, so a substrate that is easy to clean is preferable.
- Aquascaping: Provide hiding spots and structures such as rocks, driftwood, and caves. Texas Cichlids appreciate having territories and places to explore.
- Lighting: Standard aquarium lighting is sufficient. They benefit from a well-lit environment that enhances their coloration and provides a natural setting.
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Diet:
- Primary Food: Omnivorous; feed a varied diet including high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.
- Supplemental Food: Offer occasional treats like blanched vegetables (e.g., zucchini, spinach) to ensure a balanced diet.
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Behavioral Considerations:
- Compatibility: Best kept with other large, robust fish that can handle their occasional aggressive behavior. Avoid keeping with smaller or overly peaceful species.
- Social Behavior: Can be kept in pairs or small groups, but provide ample space and hiding spots. They may become more territorial and aggressive during breeding or if their space is limited.
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Tank Maintenance:
- Water Changes: Perform regular water changes (20-30% weekly) to maintain water quality and reduce the buildup of toxins.
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the tank and remove any uneaten food or waste. Ensure the filtration system is functioning properly and provides adequate water circulation.
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Health Care:
- Observation: Monitor for signs of stress or illness, such as changes in behavior, loss of appetite, or visible symptoms like discoloration or fin damage.
- Treatment: Maintain optimal water conditions and consult an aquarium professional if any health issues arise. Address any signs of disease or stress promptly to ensure the health of your fish.