Bigeye Cichlid

The bigeye cichlid takes its name from its large eyes, which cover much of its head. With a dark band running through the eye, a dark blotch in the middle of the body and an olive–brown body, it hides easily among plants and roots. With its huge mouth that can extend forward, it is a typical ambush predator: it waits motionless and swallows an approaching small fish in a single lunge. It is rare in the trade and is mostly kept by enthusiasts.

• At least 250 liters and 120 cm of length for a single fish or a pair.
• Dense plants, roots and leaf litter; dim light.
• Soft, slightly acidic, clean water; change 30% weekly.
• Gentle current; avoid crowded, noisy setups.

Carnivorous. Offer frozen mysis, shrimp, bloodworms and fish fillet; some individuals accept carnivore granules over time. Live feeder fish carry a risk of disease.

It stays calm and motionless all day; it usually does not clash with fish of its own size. It sees any fish that could fit in its mouth as prey.

Good companions: calm fish of its own size: severum, festivum, Geophagus species, large plecos, silver dollars.

Avoid: tetras and other small fish, shrimp, large aggressive cichlids.