Red Devil Cichlid

Red Devil Cichlids are intriguing freshwater fish with a distinct appearance. As a result, they are a highly popular fish that aquarists should consider getting at some point.

However, if you intend to maintain one, there are a few things you should be aware of.

Yes, their beauty and amount of activity make them incredibly appealing. However, these are huge, tenacious fish that take some skill and understanding to care for.

The Red Devil Cichlid, scientifically known as Amphilophus labiatus, is a popular fish with a charming disposition. These fish are known to form attachments with their keepers. They can perform tricks for aquarists and even beg for food like dogs.

Red Devil Cichlids, on the other hand, are not for the faint of heart. These fish, as their name implies, can be a handful. They are not only violent to other fish but they have also been known to destroy whatever they can get their teeth into.

II. You would love the fish because…

The Red Devil Cichlids have a hefty build, which adds to their frightening aspect. Their anal and dorsal fins are pointy. Both of those fins are prominent and have a “swept” appearance. This contributes to speed and agility in the water.

Males and females have similar appearances, yet there are some subtle variances. On males, the most noticeable feature is a nuchal hump. In captivity, males grow a pronounced forehead hump. In the wild, the hump is only visible during the breeding season. Males are often larger and have pointy genital papillae.

When it comes to color, there’s a lot of variety with this fish species. In the wild, you’ll usually see brown or grey Red Devil Cichlids. 

Considering the dark and murky waters of Nicaraguan Lakes, the coloration helps the fish blend into the environment in moments of trouble. 

Some more vibrant colors are found in the wild, too. Some are white, yellow, and bright red. Fish with these color patterns are most common in captivity. 

You can also find spotted Red Devil Cichlids in multiple colors. Black-tipped fins and tails are prevalent as well.

The Red Devil Cichlids have thick lips with a rubbery texture. They are slightly smaller in captivity than in the wild. It is thought that their nutrition influences their lip size, however, no solid research has been conducted to confirm this. Their lips are typically orange, however, black pigmentation has been reported.

Red Devil Cichlids have large fangs inside their mouths. They’re powerful enough to do a lot of damage. Furthermore, these fish have extremely powerful jaws, making them natural predators in and out of captivity.

III. Is this fish species peaceful or hostile?

Red Devil Cichlids are very aggressive. They’re territorial and will attack other fish in the tank.

IV. Species compatibility

Their aggressive nature, makes one keep these fish alone. They can be kept alongside other fish, but you must start them young. When young Red Devil Cichlids are grown in a tank with other Red Devil Cichlids, they rarely show symptoms of hostility.

V. How to feed this species?

Cichlids eat earthworms, bloodworms, krill, and even crickets, but as omnivores, they also require plant foods. Spirulina flakes, lettuce, broccoli, or shelled peas are excellent supplements that will help your fish survive common tank infections. Feed your red devil cichlid regularly.