Overview
Rio Grande cichlid are distinctive in that they exhibit cream and turquoise colored spots, giving them a speckled look. Background color varies from very dark to light olive. Lighter colored specimens usually exhibit five dark vertical bars. Both dorsal and anal fins are long and tapered extending behind the caudal peduncle (fleshy portion of the tail). Unlike tilapia and most sunfishes, which typically have three spines on the anal fin, Rio Grande cichlids are equipped with five to six anal fin spines. Adult males may also develop a pronounced hump on the head which is not present in tilapia.
Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Gadiformes
- Family
- Cichlidae
- Genus
- Herichyhys
- Species
- cyanoguttatus
Habitat
The Texas cichlid has several qualities that contribute to its success as an invasive species. The cichlid is not affected by high-energy wave events and pollution from outfall canals. These cichlids also have very high tolerance for salt water and high salinities that would normally act as barriers to the entrance of invasive fish
Diet
Both parents protect their young, which feed primarily on small fish, insects and crustaceans. Adults are also known to consume large quantities of fish eggs when they are available.
Behavior
Like most of its family, the Rio Grande cichlid is generally considered a warm-water fish, and is very sensitive to cold. In general, this fish does not survive at water temperatures below 49°Fahrenheit. The species may do well in heated water, and in spring-fed waters with constant favorable temperatures. Spawning occurs in early spring. The cichlid is a deliberate hunter and it depends on the camouflage of its skin in order to sneak up on its prey.
Fishing
The Rio Grande cichlid is a fine fighter, and easily caught. It is considered good table fare.
Conservation Status
Listed as Least Concern by IUCN.