Scientific name: Amphilophus alfari Common name: Pastel cichlid Family: Cichlidae Usual size in fish tanks: 15 - 22 cm (5.91 - 8.66 inch) 0 14 Recommended pH range for the species: 6.6 - 7.4 Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 16°N (71.43 - 285.71ppm) 0°C 32°F 30°C 86°F Recommended temperature: 23 - 27 °C (73.4 - 80.6°F) The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning Where the species comes from: Central America Temperament to its own species: peaceful Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive to smaller Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels Food and feeding Use a quality flake or cichlid pellets for the staple diet, the addition of live or frozen foods is a must to keep this fish in top condition. Feed blood worms, chopped earthworms, and brine shrimp. Origin Central America; Pastel cichlid is to be found in the waterways of Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Mexico. Sexing Males will be slightly larger than the females with extended dorsal and anal fins. Breeding Add flat rocks to the breeding tank; these will be used as spawning sites. Once the eggs are laid, the female will tend to the brood while the male defends the territory. After 3 days the eggs will hatch, a few days later the fry will be free swimming and can be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp. Lifespan It is believed that Pastel cichlid can live up to 8+ years. Short description Always keep Pastel cichlids in pairs, they prefer a tank with lots of hiding places but any plants added could be uprooted very quickly. Regular water changes with high filtration are a must. Picture Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.
