Guianacara gaeyi Cichlid
The Guianacara gaeyi Cichlid will thrive in an aquarium with a sandy substrate and plenty of refuge such as clay pots, driftwood, and rock formations. It typically will not eat ornamental plants, but it does like to do a fair amount of digging, so floating plants and plants that attach to driftwood and rockwork are recommended., especially in the confines of a smaller tank. It can be kept with other small cichlids, plecos, catfish, and other large, durable species in a very large tank as long as there is plenty of cover with decor to create broken lines of sight. Territoriality is typically at its peak during spawning. If spawning is desired, tankmates of other species should be avoided altogether, and care must be taken to ensure that the male Guianacara gaeyi Cichlid does not bully or kill the female. It is best to grow a group of juveniles together and allow them to pair off naturally, then give each pair its own tank if one wishes to start a breeding program with this species. Dwarf shrimp and other invertebrates should not be kept with the Guianacara gaeyi Cichlid Due to its size and waste production, regular water changes and maintenance are a must.
Feeding is simple for the unfussy Guianacara gaeyi Cichlid. High-quality dry, frozen, and live meaty foods will all be readily accepted. Vegetable matter is also required. Quality and variety are the keys to a diet that will ensure that this fish maintains optimal health and coloration.
What We Like About This Fish:
- Beautiful coloration in both males and females
- Very hardy with plenty of personality
- Easy to breed in the aquarium
- Excellent species for larger tanks
- Potential to be a "centerpiece" fish
RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS:
- Temperature: 68° - 77° F (20° - 25° C)
- pH: 6.5 - 8.0
- KH: 5 - 25 dKH
- Minimum tank size: 75 gallons for a single adult, 90+ gallons for a pair
CARE GUIDELINES:
- Diet: Omnivorous. A variety of high-quality dry, frozen, and live meaty foods is necessary for optimal health and coloration. Vegetable matter is also regularly required.
- Social behaviour: Congregates loosely in groups as juveniles. Territorial during spawning.