Dicrossus maculatus

Dicrossus maculatus

Dicrossus maculatus was first described by Steindachner in 1875. This species belongs to the family Cichlidae. The genus Dicrossus contains five recognized species. The name Dicrossus is derived from the Greek ‘di’ (two) and ‘krossoi’ (brush), referring to the double brush-like fins of the fish. The species name ‘maculatus’ comes from the Latin word for ‘spotted’, referring to the spots on the fish’s body.

Synonyms: Crenicara maculata, Crenicara praetoriusi.

Description

Appearance: Dicrossus maculatus has an elongated body with a silvery-gray color and two rows of black spots along the sides. The fins of the males are often blue with an iridescent sheen, while the females are less conspicuously colored. Males can grow up to 9 centimeters long, while females usually stay around 6 centimeters.

Differences between males and females: Males are larger and have a more pronounced color pattern, with blue and red tones on the fins. Females are smaller and have less striking colors. During the breeding season, the pectoral fins of the females become bright yellow.

Behavior and temperament: Dicrossus maculatus is generally peaceful, but can become territorial during mating season. They usually live in pairs or small groups and are bottom dwellers. They are shy and often hide among plants and decorations.

Life expectancy: In the wild and in aquariums they can live up to 5 years.

Biotope

Natural distribution: Dicrossus maculatus occurs in South America, mainly in Brazil, in the rivers Rio Tapajós and Rio Maués.

Habitat: They live in slow-flowing rivers and streams with sandy bottoms and many underwater plants, such as Eleocharis. The banks are often covered with trees, which provides shady and sheltered places.

Climate: They live in a tropical climate with a low pH of 4.8 to 6.0 and temperatures between 22°C and 25°C.

Diet

In the wild: Dicrossus maculatus is carnivorous and feeds on small invertebrates such as mosquito larvae, Artemia, Daphnia and Cyclops.

In the aquarium: They can be fed live food, frozen food and dry food such as flakes and pellets. It is important to vary the diet to prevent deficiencies.

The Aquarium

Size: A minimum 140 liter (35 gallon) aquarium is required for a pair of Dicrossus maculatus. Multiple pairs will require a larger aquarium.

Decoration: The aquarium should be densely planted with lots of hiding places such as driftwood, roots and stones. A sandy bottom is ideal.

Water parameters: The ideal water parameters are a pH of 4.8 to 6.0, a temperature of 22°C to 25°C and low conductivity.

Compatibility: They can coexist well with peaceful species such as Apistogramma agassizii, Taeniacara candidi, and Pristella maxillaris.

Breeding aquarium and conditioning

Breeding: Breeding requires a special aquarium with nearly distilled water (conductivity less than 50 μS/cm) and a pH below 5.5. The aquarium should be well planted and provided with hiding places such as coconut shells. The fish should be conditioned with live food.

The spawn

Spawning: During spawning the colors of the fish become more intense. The eggs are laid on a broad-leaved aquatic plant or a stone. The female guards the eggs, which hatch after about 3 days.

Raising the fry

Growing up: The fry begin to swim freely after about 5 days. The female cares for the fry, which can be fed with Artemia nauplii. Regular water changes are essential for a high survival rate.

Particularities

Special features: Dicrossus maculatus is rare in the trade and is often confused with Dicrossus filamentosus . They are sensitive to water quality and require a well-maintained aquarium.

Conclusion

Dicrossus maculatus is a beautiful and interesting fish species for advanced aquarists. They require specific water parameters and a well-planted aquarium. Although peaceful, they can become territorial during the breeding season. Breeding this species is challenging but very rewarding for experienced aquarists.

Author

John de Lange

Copyright images

Gert Blank