The Green Texas Cichlid is also known as the Pearlscale Cichlid. It should not be confused with Cichlasoma cyanoguttatum, the Texas Cichlid. The Green Texas Cichlid is considered to be an amiable fish. A pearly-green in color, the Green Texas Cichlid male can grow to an impressive 12 inches long. The male and female bond and form a pair after intense jaw locking. While rearing the fry, both parents turn a dark, almost black color with the exception of a right-angle triangular spot behind the pectoral fin.

Green Texas Cichlids require a tank of at least 50 gallons with lots of room to swim and adequate hiding spots. Most plants that are added to the aquarium will be uprooted as they dig, so floating plants may be more appropriate. They are very adaptable to differences in water chemistry. Being aggressive in nature, the Green Texas Cichlid should only be housed with more aggressive fish that are close to the same size.

The Green Texas Cichlid is an open breeder that is very prolific. Maturity is reached when males reach approximately 4 inches in length and the female 3 inches. The Green Texas Cichlid is an egg layer and the larvae hatch 4 days after spawning. They are free-swimming after another 4-6 days and both parents will protect the fry. Juveniles may be susceptible to intestinal diseases.

The Green Texas Cichlid is omnivorous and will eat most prepared and frozen foods including freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, and ocean plankton, as well as flake food and Cichlid pellets.

Ideal tank mates include similar sized:

• Loaches
• Other South American Cichlids
• Plecos
• Scavenger Catfish
• Similar sized fish (miscellaneous fish)