Yellowjacket Cichlid

The yellowjacket cichlid is one of the medium-sized species of the genus Parachromis. A dark horizontal band runs along its yellowish–bronze body, and the body is covered with scattered black spots; the shade varies with the individual and sex. Males can exceed 25 cm, while females stay smaller. With its large mouth it is a typical ambush predator and is known in Central America as both a food and a sport fish.

• At least 400 liters and 150 cm of length for a single adult.
• Large rocks, roots and caves; a wide open area.
• Powerful filtration, a guarded heater and a sturdy lid.
• A 30–50% water change weekly.

Carnivorous. Make carnivore cichlid granules the staple; vary them with frozen shrimp, mysis, mussels and fish fillet. One meal a day is enough for adults.

Territorial and aggressive; it hunts fish that fit in its mouth. During breeding the pair claims most of the aquarium.

Good companions: robust Central American cichlids of its own size, large plecos; in a very large aquarium.

Avoid: small and peaceful fish, shrimp, snails, slow and long-finned species.