How difficult is it to keep Rio Grande cichlid?

Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.

What is the ideal temperature for Rio Grande cichlid?

The ideal temperature for Rio Grande cichlid is 20〜33℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

How large does Rio Grande cichlid get?

Rio Grande cichlid typically reaches Up to 30 cm TL, commonly about 11 cm (FishBase) as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.

What should I feed Rio Grande cichlid?

Rio Grande cichlid feeds on: Omnivore (prepared foods, frozen foods, plant matter). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.

What is the typical price for Rio Grande cichlid?

The price of Rio Grande cichlid varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Rio Grande cichlid

Intermediate

Herichthys cyanoguttatus

A medium-large cichlid from Texas and northeastern Mexico, grey-green with dense pearly blue spots. The only cichlid native to the USA, adults reach 30 cm.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Temperature

20〜33℃

Lifespan

Few reliable data

Size

Up to 30 cm TL, commonly about 11 cm (FishBase)

Diet

Omnivore (prepared foods, frozen foods, plant matter)

About

The Texas or Rio Grande cichlid, Herichthys cyanoguttatus, is native to the lower Rio Grande drainage in Texas and northeastern Mexico and is considered the only cichlid native to the USA. It has been introduced to and established on the Edwards Plateau of central Texas and in central Florida (FishBase). It reaches 30 cm TL, commonly about 11 cm. Grey-green with fine pearly blue spots, mature males may develop a nuchal hump. It favours pools and slow runs with submerged rocks, branches or vegetation, eating worms, crustaceans, insects and plant matter. It is belligerent and territorial, so tankmates and tank size need care. Both parents guard eggs and fry. Also known under the old name Cichlasoma cyanoguttatum, it is a standard Central American cichlid in Japanese shops. Never release it if you can no longer keep it.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Size of the Rio Grande cichlid

The Rio Grande cichlid grows to Up to 30 cm TL, commonly about 11 cm (FishBase).

Temperature & humidity for the Rio Grande cichlid

The ideal temperature for the Rio Grande cichlid is 20〜33℃.

Basic Info

Origin

North America (lower Rio Grande drainage, Texas to northeastern Mexico)

Lifespan

Few reliable data

Size

Up to 30 cm TL, commonly about 11 cm (FishBase)

Temperature

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team

The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Herichthys cyanoguttatus Baird & Girard, 1854

Synonyms: Cichlasoma cyanoguttatum (Baird & Girard, 1854), Cichlasoma pavonaceum (Garman, 1881), Heros pavonaceus Garman, 1881, Parapetenia cyanostigma Hernandez-Rolon, 1990

Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF · FishBase

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listedIUCN LC · Least Concern

Not listed in the CITES Appendices (checked on Species+). Not designated under Japan's Invasive Alien Species Act nor on the Ministry of the Environment's invasive species list (as of September 2026). A large predatory fish reaching 30 cm, it has established populations outside its native range after releases. Plan for lifelong housing and never release it into the wild.

Sources: Species+ (CITES) / FishBase

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.