The Red Devil Cichlid (Amphilophus labiatus) is an eye-catching and highly intelligent freshwater fish known for its vibrant red, orange, or white coloration, powerful build, and aggressive personality. Native to lakes and rivers in Nicaragua and Costa Rica, this species thrives in rocky freshwater environments where it establishes territories and fiercely defends them.
A Name That Matches Its Fiery Nature
The name "Red Devil" is well-earned due to its intense aggression, territorial behavior, and strong personality. These fish are known to bond with their owners, recognize faces, and even display playful yet combative behavior through the glass. However, they can be extremely aggressive toward tank mates, often dominating the entire aquarium.
Growth and Tank Requirements
Red Devil Cichlids are large and powerful fish, with males growing up to 15 inches and females slightly smaller at around 12 inches. Due to their size and temperament, they require a minimum tank size of 75 gallons for a single fish, with 125+ gallons recommended for a more comfortable environment or if attempting tank mates. Their tank should include sturdy decorations, caves, and hiding spots, as they are known for rearranging the aquarium by digging and moving objects.
Care and Water Parameters
This species thrives in temperatures between 74-80°F, with a pH range of 6.5-7.5 and moderate to hard water conditions. A powerful filtration system is necessary to handle their waste, as they are messy eaters. Regular water changes are essential to keep ammonia and nitrate levels under control.
Diet and Feeding
Red Devil Cichlids are omnivores with a carnivorous preference, requiring a high-protein diet to maintain their health and vibrant colors. They should be fed high-quality pellets, frozen foods like shrimp and krill, and occasional live foods such as earthworms or feeder fish. They also enjoy vegetable matter, such as spinach or peas, to aid digestion.
Unique Behaviors
One of the most intelligent and interactive cichlids, Red Devils quickly recognize their owners and can even be hand-fed. However, their strong territorial instincts make them unsuitable for peaceful community tanks. They enjoy digging, moving decorations, and rearranging their environment, so aquarists should secure decorations to prevent damage.
Please note that these are general guidelines, and for more accurate values, we encourage you to contact Living Aquarium by phone or in person. Within store hours, our team of experts are always happy to answer any questions you may have and provide personalized guidance on care.