Rio Grande Cichlid
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Scientific Name:
Herichthys cyanoguttatus Freshwater
Non-native
Fish
- Seasons and Regulations
- Licenses/Permits
Description
Dark, almost black to light olive/grey body with white and blue spots. Similar in size and shape to to Louisiana’s native bluegill. During spawning season, adult males may have a large forehead bump.
**If you catch a Rio Grande cichlid, you may not return it to the water or possess it alive.**
Range and Habitat
Native to northeast Mexico and southwestern Texas. Found in freshwater ponds, canals, and ditches. Prefer areas with aquatic vegetation cover. A popular species in the pet trade, aquarium dumping has resulted in this invasive species establishing a population in southeastern Louisiana around Jefferson, Orleans, and Plaquemines parishes.
Behavior
Feed on small fish, insects, and crustaceans. Territorial and aggressive during spawning season in early spring. Build nests in shallow areas. Both parents stay and protect the nest.