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CSA1649S

BLACKTHROAT CICHLID (Astatheros macracanthus)

BLACKTHROAT CICHLID (Astatheros macracanthus)

$19.99 CAD
$19.99 CAD
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30 in stock
Astatheros macracanthus, commonly known as the blackthroat cichlid, is a freshwater fish native to the Pacific slopes of Central America, stretching from southern Mexico to El Salvador. It is currently classified as the only recognized species within the genus Astatheros. Highly regarded by experienced aquarists as a "fish for connoisseurs," it remains a rare find in the aquarium hobby due to its aggressive nature and subtle standard coloration.
Biological Overview
  • Size: Individuals average around 25 cm (10 inches) in length, though dominant adult males can grow up to 30–32 cm.
  • Lifespan: They typically live between 8 to 10 years in proper conditions.
  • Appearance: They feature a robust, deep grey or grey-brown body with 5 dark vertical bars and a mid-lateral row of dark spots.
  • Breeding Coloration: During spawning, their appearance transforms dramatically into a striking snow-white body contrasted by pitch-black lips, a black throat, and dark body markings.
Natural Habitat & Diet
  • Environment: They inhabit tropical freshwater rivers, creeks, and brackish coastal lagoons at shallow depths up to 5 meters.
  • Water Conditions: They thrive in water temperatures between 26°C and 30°C (79°F–86°F) and a pH range of 7.0 to 7.5.
  • Diet: As benthic omnivores, they sift through substrate to feed on a varied diet, though they tend to ignore most vegetable matter in home aquaria.
Aquarium Care
  • Tank Size: Due to their large size and high territorial aggression, a minimum tank volume of 322 litres (85 gallons) is required.
  • Setup: Aquariums should feature a sand substrate, robust rocks, and driftwood to establish natural territorial boundaries.
  • Filtration: Heavy, efficient water filtration is essential to handle their biological load and maintain pristine water quality
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