Hypsophrys nicaraguensis – Moga
Now, you will probably think, what kind of titles does “BlackWater” throw at us… Well, I am someone who likes to look up what the local population calls “their” fish; I find it extremely fascinating to know what “they” tell about the fish species in “their” waters, something like ours with our “roach”, “pike”, “carp”… Information that we use very little in our articles about our favorite beauties… That is why I go that extra mile… Of course, it takes some time before I know this, let alone have it translated… But again a fascinating episode, this time, a Central American in the spotlight… The Hypsophrys nicaraguensis.
Etymology
The name “Hypsophrys” is derived from two Greek words: “hyps,” meaning “high,” and “ophryas,” meaning “eyebrow.” This refers to the high position of the eye in relation to the mouth of the fish. The term “nicaraguensis” denotes the fish’s native region: Nicaragua.
This cichlid was first (though somewhat dubiously) discovered by Louis Agassiz in 1859, who referred to it as Hypsophrys agassiz. However, it was Albert Günther who accurately described the species in 1864, naming it Heros nicaraguensis. Locally, this fish is known as “moga amarilla,” with “amarilla” meaning “yellow” or “yellowish.” The term “moga” is simply a local name and does not translate directly to anything specific.
Furthermore, this fish has been assigned various Latin names, including Cichlasoma nicaraguensis, Copora nicaraguensis, Heros balteatum, and Cichlasoma spilotum, before receiving its current name in 2003.
What makes this beautiful swimmer special is that it is considered a “monotypic” genus according to older descriptions; this means it has no close relatives within its genus, Hypsophrys. Notably, its eggs are not sticky and are not laid on a substrate. This fish was first introduced to Europe in the 1970s.
Origin and habitat
The Yellow Moga is a fish species native to Central America, primarily found in Nicaragua and the northern regions of Costa Rica. It mainly inhabits the large lakes of Managua and Jiloa, which are connected to the river system of the Rio San Juan. In Costa Rica, it can be spotted in the Rio Sapoa, San Carlos, and the Rio Matina. This fish has been observed at depths of approximately 15 meters, often living in larger groups and demonstrating a remarkable symbiotic relationship with another fish species.
The Moga collaborates with the Parachromis dovii to defend against their major competitor, the Neetropolus nematopus, in terms of breeding grounds. They protect the young Parachromis dovii from the smaller Neetropolus, which allows the “dovii” to feed on the Neetropolus. This cooperation creates more space in the breeding grounds. It’s a fascinating example of how the Yellow Moga engages in what can be described as a form of “warfare.”
The biotope in that area primarily consists of sand, stone, sediment, and boulders, with occasional pieces of driftwood brought in from the rivers. You should also set up the aquarium to reflect this environment. Refer to the section on “breeding” for guidance, as the species typically inhabit the bottom of the aquarium.
Description
I’m not going to add much explanation, enjoy the pictures and the beautiful color spectacle I would say:
The female is more colorful than the male!
The male will later develop a hump as he ages.
In general, I can say that these fish have very powerful mouths, particularly when it comes to their feeding habits. In an aquarium, they can grow to around 18 cm in length, while females tend to be slightly smaller and have a more compact body structure that resembles the Tropheus species from Africa. These fish are beautiful, and their names range from “butterfly cichlid” to “parrot cichlid,” which reflects the stunning sunset colors they display.
In younger fish, it is difficult to distinguish between male and female. Therefore, it is advisable to buy a group of four. They only develop their vibrant colors once they form a pair, appearing quite dull before that—typically displaying yellow and greyish shades, much like “ugly ducklings.”
Water composition in my aquarium, when breeding these fish
Temp: 26 to 28.5°C
PH: 6.7 (but can easily rise to 7.8)
KH: 3 (measured during breeding)
GH: 9 (measured during breeding)
In general, they are not very demanding in terms of water values, and can easily be kept in harder water, as in nature. A characteristic of most Central American cichlids.
Diet
In their stomach research, the scientists discovered that these creatures consume snails (thanks to their powerful mouths!), algae, and insects. In an aquarium setting, they are true gluttons, eating until they are nearly full to bursting! They will consume everything edible, from pieces of freshwater shrimp and raw mussels to mosquito larvae.
Flake food and sticks are also no problem, but make sure the food touches the bottom, because they have a downward-pointing mouth.
Breeding Hypsophrys nicaraguensis – Moga
They are now requesting a special arrangement that would allow them to dig holes between and/or under stones, driftwood, and sand. While you could certainly create such holes, I prefer to let them do it on their own. (See photos.)
In the bickering group of Yellow Moga cichlids, a couple will separate from the rest. A vibrant courtship and colorful display will soon follow. During this time, the female tests the male’s strength by engaging in playful squabbles away from the group. Once he has proven his strength, they will work together to dig around stones and branches. Creating a suitable nesting hole is essential, as their large, yellowish eggs (2mm) do not stick to surfaces—this species is unique among cichlids for having non-sticky eggs. They will lay the eggs in a sand pit within the hole, with the female inside watching over them while the male guards the entrance.
As is typical for cichlids, fierce protection follows; any invaders that come too close, even larger fish like plecos, can expect a sharp warning.
After three days, the eggs hatch, but the young remain in the nest for a short period until they can swim properly. It is vital to provide Artemia nauplii as an initial food source. Once moved to a breeding tank, the fry will consume any small food available. Thus begins the growth of a new generation of “ugly ducklings.”
The aquarium and its inhabitants
The minimum aquarium size recommended is 120 cm x 60 cm x 60 cm. This setup can accommodate a small group of four Moga fish, as well as some Torichthys-like species, C. sajica, or Archocentrus-like species, along with Brochis and algae eaters.
To create a suitable environment, consider incorporating a large plant such as an overgrown Tiger Lotus or Giant Vallisneria. It’s especially important to include driftwood, sand, and stacked stones in the aquarium.
While it is possible to keep this cichlid alongside larger American cichlids, please note that your aquarium will need to be significantly larger to ensure proper conditions for all the fish.
Video
Author
BlackWater (William Bouqué)
Copyright images
BlackWater (William Bouqué) – Amazoona.be (original website no longer online)
References
Own experience.
Own photos.
Map: Texas University, free of copyright.
Google: etymology and Latin names.