Amphilophus labiatus – Red Devil
Despite their nickname (Red devil) this fish is orange when mature. As young fish, they start out with stripes that fade later. It can take a while for this fish to get its final color. In between they can be colors from light yellow to red and everything in between. They can also get black spots or faint black stripes.
The males get a big bump on their heads as adults. This is less visible in females. They are big fish that can reach a length of 35 centimeters!
Synonyms: Cichlasoma labiatum, Heros Labiatus, Herichthys Labiatus.
Origin
Lake Managua, Lake Nicaragua, Nicaragua.
The aquarium
These large fish need a large aquarium of at least two meters. They are good swimmers who like to dig in the ground. Therefore, make sure that the plants are firmly in the ground. If necessary, anchor it in a flower pot. Because they like to dig in the ground so much, it should not be too sharp. Therefore, make sure you use round gravel or sand.
With hard plants, stones, and driftwood, you can ensure that there are enough hiding places. They like to swim and preferably with some current. Therefore, use a powerful filter and change the water regularly.
Diet
In terms of food, Amphilophus labiatus are not the most challenging fish. They are real omnivores. You can use both live food and frozen food. Examples are mosquito larvae, worms, insects, snails and pieces of beef heart. In addition, green food and cichlid sticks are also eaten. Avoid giving the same food every day. This is not good for the fish.
Character
Their name gives it away. Red devil, the Amphilophus labiatus is incredibly aggressive. In addition, they also keep a territory very well. For this reason, they certainly cannot be kept together with other types of fish. With conspecifics yes, but make sure there are enough hiding places.
Breeding Amphilophus labiatus – Red Devil
Breeding these large fish is not very difficult. Because Amphilophus labiatus keeps a territory well, keeping one couple in an aquarium is wise. This couple can be chosen by putting a group of young fish together and paying close attention to which fish form a couple.
Once this is clear, you can catch the rest of the fish. During the breeding season, everything that comes near the territory is fiercely attacked. The female lays 600-700 eggs and these are then fertilized in a brood pit. Both parents take care of the brood in this species.
After 3-5 days, the eggs hatch and are moved by the parents several times to another breeding pit. In addition, the parents ensure that the fish are safe and cared for. The fry can be reared with artemia-nauplii.
Video
Author
Kevin
Copyright images
Benny Goovaerts
F. Ingemann Hansen – Akvariefotografen.com
