Nicaraguan Cichlid

Hypsophrys nicaraguensis

CichlidsIntermediate

Species Details

Attractive Central American cichlid with gold and blue colouration, suitable for intermediate cichlid keepers.

Intermediate Care Level

Basic Information

Size20-25 cm (8-10 inches)
TemperamentSemi-aggressive
DietOmnivorous
Lifespan8-10 years
Tank Size208+ litres (55+ gallons)

Water Parameters

Temperature
22-30°C (72-86°F)
pH Level
6.5-8.5
Hardness
10-25 dGH

Tank Mate Recommendations

Based on 1 selected species

Current Selection:

Nicaraguan Cichlid
Fully Compatible Species
Compatible

Angelfish

Pterophyllum scalare

Cichlids
Size:15 cm tall, 20 cm long (6 inches tall, 8 inches long)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful/Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Tanganyikan Cichlids

Various Lamprologus, Julidochromis, Neolamprologus

Cichlids
Size:5-20 cm (2-8 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Tetras

Various Tetra species

Characins
Size:2.5-7.5 cm (1-3 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

Pleco Catfish

Various Hypostomus, Pterygoplichthys species

Catfish
Size:15-45 cm (6-18 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Peaceful but territorial
100%
Compatible

Barbs

Various Barbus, Puntius species

Cyprinids
Size:5-15 cm (2-6 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful/Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Discus

Symphysodon species

Cichlids
Size:15-20 cm (6-8 inches)
Care Level:Advanced
Temperament:Peaceful/Semi-aggressive
100%

💡 Tank Mate Tips

• Consider adult size when planning tank space

• Research specific water parameter requirements

• Introduce new fish gradually to reduce stress

• Monitor behavior closely during the first weeks

Quick Facts

Beautiful gold and blue cichlid from Nicaragua

Moderately aggressive Central American species

Males develop nuchal hump when mature

Excellent parents with elaborate care rituals

Can be kept in cichlid communities with planning

Prefer slightly alkaline water conditions

Live 8-10 years typically

Native to Nicaragua and Costa Rica

Also called Moga or Chessboard cichlid

Hardy and adaptable species

Compatibility Summary

Compatible Species6
Requires Caution5

Care Requirements

Tank Size208+ litres (55+ gallons)
Temperature22-30°C (72-86°F)
pH6.5-8.5
Hardness10-25 dGH