Red Terror Cichlid
Red Terror Cichlid
Red Terror Cichlid (Mesoheros festae) is one of the most spectacularly colored large cichlids available — females in particular develop extraordinary vivid red to orange-red body coloration with dark banding that genuinely justifies the 'Red Terror' name. Males are larger with blue-green iridescent scaling. A large, aggressive cichlid requiring an experienced keeper.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Cichlid Bio-Gold makes an excellent primary staple — Hikari Micro Pellets as backup. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms or Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Brine Shrimp. Feed 2–3 times daily in amounts consumed within a few minutes.
Native to Pacific slope rivers of Ecuador and northwestern Peru. Central American cichlids generally prefer hard, alkaline water — quite different from the soft acidic conditions preferred by most South American cichlids.
Keep as a bonded pair or with other large, similarly aggressive Central American cichlids. Flat surface spawners with devoted biparental care.
Central American cichlids are rewarding and long-lived aquarium residents for experienced cichlid keepers.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Temperament | Aggressive — large cichlid specialist |
| Typical Adult Size | 18–20 inches (45–50 cm) — males; females smaller |
| Min. Group Size | Bonded pair — species or Central American community |
| Ideal Temp | 75–82°F (24–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 7.0–8.0 |
| Ideal GH | 8–20 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 4–12 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Cichlid Bio-Gold; Hikari Micro Pellets |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms; Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Brine Shrimp |
| Origin | Pacific slope rivers of Ecuador and northwestern Peru |
| Notes | Females develop extraordinary red-orange coloration. Males larger with blue-green scaling. Grows to 18–20 inches. 180+ gallon tank needed. Very aggressive — specialist fish only. |
