Origins and Classification
- Scientific Name: Heros efasciatus (Red Shoulder variety)
- Family: Cichlidae
- Origin: Native to the Amazon Basin in South America, found in slow-moving rivers, flooded forests, and calm tributaries.
- Popularity: A favorite among cichlid keepers for its calm temperament (compared to other cichlids) and stunning red or orange shoulder marking.
🎨 Appearance
- Color:
- Body ranges from gold to olive-green.
- Vibrant red or orange “shoulder patch” near the gill plate.
- Faint vertical bars along the body (some lines show stronger pattern).
- Structure:
- Deep, rounded body shape.
- Large flowing dorsal and anal fins.
- Prominent eyes with a red/orange ring.
- Size:
- Typically 7–8 inches (18–20 cm); can reach 10 inches in spacious tanks.
- Lifespan: 8–12 years, longer with excellent care.
🏡 Tank Requirements
- Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons for one adult; larger for groups.
- Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
- pH: 6.0–7.2 (slightly acidic preferred)
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water.
- Lighting: Moderate.
- Substrate: Sand or fine gravel — they enjoy occasional digging.
- Habitat Setup:
- Add driftwood, stone structures, and live plants (choose hardy species).
- Provide open swimming space in the center.
- Gentle filtration with clean, stable water.
🍽️ Diet
- Type: Omnivorous.
- Foods:
- High-quality cichlid pellets.
- Frozen/live foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, krill.
- Veggie foods: spinach, peas, spirulina flakes.
- Feeding Tips: Feed 1–2 times daily in moderate portions.
🤝 Behavior and Compatibility
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive but generally peaceful for a cichlid species.
- Tank Mates:
- Works well with larger tetras, silver dollars, plecos, rainbowfish, angelfish, and peaceful South American cichlids.
- Avoid small fish (they may be seen as food).
- Avoid overly aggressive cichlids.
- Grouping:
- Can be kept singly or as a pair.
- Avoid keeping multiple males in small tanks.
- Behavior:
- Graceful swimmer.
- Territorial during breeding.
- Intelligent and interactive with owners.
💡 Care Notes
- Needs clean, warm water — perform weekly 30–40% water changes.
- Provide gentle flow and avoid extreme currents.
- Coloration becomes most vibrant with a varied high-quality diet.
- A stunning centerpiece cichlid with personality, beauty, and manageable temperament.
