Semi adults
for a large pair should be in the region of 150cm- 5 ft. with width and height at least 60cm. Provide plenty of hiding places such as caves made from flowerpots or naturally assembled with rocks and wood. This will provide sanctuary for the female, as the male fish can sometimes become very aggressive. There are various reports of the temperament of these fish. Some keepers report of placid behaviour others of an extremely aggressive cichlid that rarely tolerates other fish let alone conspecifics. Certainly this behaviour will be influenced by the size of tank. If you’ re thinking of keeping them within a community setup, then go for a tank of at least 180cm in length,
Paratheraps zonatus, Niltepec Photo © Uwe Werner
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