Scientific name: Archocentrus septemfasciatus Common name: Seven stripe cichlid Family: Cichlidae Usual size in fish tanks: 9 - 12 cm (3.54 - 4.72 inch) 0 14 Recommended pH range for the species: 6.9 - 7.7 Recommended water hardness (dGH): 9 - 23°N (160.71 - 410.71ppm) 0°C 32°F 30°C 86°F Recommended temperature: 21 - 26 °C (69.8 - 78.8°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 Seven stripe cichlids will accept all foods offered. Use a quality flake or pellets for the staple diet but include treats of live or frozen foods twice a week. Blood worms and brine shrimp are ideal for this. To supply all other nutrients required add some spirulina or vegetable matter to the diet. Origin Central America; Seven stripe cichlids are to be found in the waterways of Costa Rica, Panama and Nicaragua. Sexing Matures males will be larger and more brightly coloured than the females. Mature females will display a dark spot on their dorsal fin. Breeding Add artificial caves to the breeding tank as these fish are secretive cave spawners. The female will deposit the eggs at the top of the cave and tend them while the male defends the territory. The eggs should hatch after 48 hours and a few days later the female will allow the fry out once they are free swimming. At this stage they can be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp. Lifespan The expected life span for Seven stripe cichlid is 2-5 years. Short description Although Archocentrus septemfasciatus can settle in a wide range of water parameters, good filtration must be provided with regular water changes. Add rocks or bogwood to the tank to provide hiding places and id any live plants are in the tank, they will probably be uprooted. Pictures Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.
