Red Devil Cichlid

The Red Devil Cichlid is an iconic large cichlid known for its stunning coloration and notorious aggression. Native to Nicaraguan lakes, these fish are aptly named - they are true devils when it comes to temperament. They develop a brilliant solid red, orange, or sometimes white coloration as they mature, with males developing a prominent nuchal hump on their forehead. Red Devils are highly intelligent and interactive fish that recognize their owners and can be trained to take food from hands, but their aggression makes them unsuitable for community tanks. They will attack anything in their territory including tank equipment, heaters, and filters. A single Red Devil requires a very large tank and should be housed alone. Their impressive size, stunning colors, and dog-like personalities make them a rewarding challenge for experienced aquarists who can provide the space and understand their aggressive nature.

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Red Devil Cichlids require very large aquariums of 100 gallons or more for a single specimen. They need robust filtration and heavy-duty equipment as they may attack heaters and filters. Use large rocks and driftwood for decoration but be aware they will rearrange anything they can move. Provide open swimming space. Ensure all equipment is secured and protected.

Water Quality

• Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
• pH: 6.5-7.5
• Water Hardness: Moderate, 5-15 dGH
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <30 ppm

Feeding

These omnivores have large appetites and accept a variety of foods. Offer high-quality large pellets, frozen foods like krill and bloodworms, and vegetable matter. They benefit from foods containing carotenoids to enhance their red coloration. Feed once or twice daily with substantial portions appropriate for their large size.

Behavior & Compatibility

Red Devil Cichlids should be kept alone in species-only tanks. They are extremely aggressive and will kill most tank mates. Some experienced aquarists keep them with other large, robust Central American cichlids in very large tanks, but this is risky. They are highly intelligent and interactive with their owners, making them engaging pets despite their aggression.

Tips for Success

• Must be kept alone; they are simply too aggressive for community tanks
• Provide a very large tank; minimum 100 gallons for one fish
• Secure all equipment; they will attack and potentially damage heaters and filters
• Their red coloration intensifies with age and proper diet
• Long-lived fish that requires long-term commitment
• Regular large water changes essential for maintaining water quality
• Their intelligence and personality make them rewarding for experienced keepers