Green Terror

The Green Terror is a stunning South American cichlid renowned for its spectacular metallic green and blue iridescent coloration. Despite its intimidating name, it is actually less aggressive than many other large cichlids like the Jack Dempsey, though it still requires respect and appropriate tankmates. Males develop an impressive nuchal hump on their forehead and longer flowing fins as they mature. These intelligent fish display complex behaviors and can recognize their owners. Growing to 12 inches, they need large tanks and are best suited for experienced cichlid keepers who appreciate their beauty and can handle their territorial nature.

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Green Terrors need spacious tanks with secure territories:

• Minimum 55 gallons for one juvenile (75+ for adults)
• 100+ gallons for pairs or community cichlid setups
• Large canister filter (they are messy and grow large)
• Heater to maintain 72-80°F
• Sand or gravel substrate
• Rock caves, driftwood, and clay pots for territories
• Large plants (Java Fern, Anubias) attached to hardscape
• Open swimming space in the center
• Tight-fitting lid - they can jump

Important: Secure rockwork thoroughly. They are strong fish that can rearrange decorations when establishing territories.

Water Quality

• Temperature: 72-80°F (22-27°C)
• pH: 6.5-8.0 (adaptable, prefer slightly acidic to neutral)
• Water Hardness: Moderate (5-15 dGH)
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <30 ppm

Maintenance:

• Weekly 25-30% water changes
• Strong filtration is essential
• They are relatively adaptable to water conditions
• Monitor water parameters to maintain color vibrancy

Feeding

Green Terrors are omnivores with a preference for protein:

• High-quality cichlid pellets as staple
• Frozen foods: bloodworms, Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp
• Live foods: occasional crickets, earthworms, or ghost shrimp
• Vegetable matter: spirulina, blanched vegetables
• Shrimp: krill or Mysis for color enhancement

Feeding Schedule: 2 times daily, good-sized portions for their appetite.

Note: They are enthusiastic eaters but less aggressive at feeding time than some other cichlids.

Behavior & Compatibility

Green Terrors are territorial but manageable:

• Good Tank Mates (with similar-sized fish):

  • Oscar (if similar size introduced together)
  • Jack Dempsey (if tank is large enough)
  • Severum (peaceful but large enough)
  • Convict Cichlid
  • Large Plecos (too tough to bully)
  • Firemouth Cichlid

• NEVER House With:

  • Small fish (will be eaten)
  • Peaceful community fish
  • Tetras, Guppies, Corydoras
  • Fish smaller than half their size

Aggression: Less aggressive than Jack Dempsey or Oscar, but still territorial. Usually only aggressive when breeding or defending territory.

Breeding

Green Terrors can be bred in captivity:

• Monogamous pairs - form strong bonds
• Sexual dimorphism: Males larger with nuchal hump, longer fins
• Spawning site: Flat rocks or clay pot bottom
• Both parents care for eggs and fry
• Eggs: 200-600 depending on female size
• Fry care: Parents protect fry for several weeks

Breeding Behavior: Parents become more territorial when breeding but usually manageable in large tanks (100+ gallons).

Health Considerations

Generally robust fish:

• Hole-in-the-Head: Rare but possible; maintain good water quality
• Ich: Watch when stressed from water parameter changes
• Bloat: From overfeeding or poor quality food
• Fin nipping: If kept with overly aggressive tankmates

Prevention:

• Maintain good water quality with regular changes
• Provide varied, high-quality diet
• Avoid sudden water parameter changes

Size Considerations

Green Terrors are moderately large cichlids:

• Juvenile size: 2-3 inches when purchased
• Mature size: 8-12 inches (males larger)
• Lifespan: 10-12 years with proper care

Note: They grow relatively quickly in the first year, then slow down.

Appearance

Males display the most spectacular colors:

• Metallic green and blue iridescent scales
• Nuchal hump develops on males at 6+ inches
• Fin extensions: Males get long, flowing fins
• Sparkling cheeks: Bright blue-green operculum markings
• Body shape: Deep-bodied with pointed face

Females: Smaller, less hump, shorter fins, but still beautifully colored.

Tank Maintenance

• Weekly 25-30% water changes
• Clean canister filter monthly
• Gravel vacuuming
• Re-secure decorations they move
• Monitor for territorial disputes

Tips for Success

• Start with the largest tank possible
• Add dither fish in upper levels if aggression becomes an issue
• Keep with similar-sized, equally robust tankmates
• Feed high-quality foods for best coloration
• Provide multiple caves to establish territories
• Introduce all fish at similar sizes when possible
• Consider species-only tank or with one other large cichlid
• Regular water changes keep colors vibrant

Comparison to Blue Acara

Often confused with Blue Acara (Andinoacara pulcher):

• Green Terror: Larger (up to 12”), more aggressive, more spectacular colors
• Blue Acara: Smaller (up to 6”), more peaceful, similar color pattern but less intense