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This species coloration is mostly bright orange to orange-red in adults; mature males are of larger size, longer fins and with a distinct hump on their heads; aquarists usually refer to the lighter-colored, thin-lipped form as this species. Body shape (shape guide): short and / or deep.
Adults livesin box-cut canals with rocky vertical sides, crevices used for spawning and protection of the young (Ref. 5723). They are found in lakes; uncommon in the rivers but will penetrate the lower river valleys where the water is slow flowing or tranquil (Ref. 7335). Omnivorous, eating mostly aufwuchs, snails and small fishes (Ref. 7335); also feed on insect larvae, worms and other bottom-dwelling organisms (Ref. 44091). Majority of this fish has normal cryptic coloration (black, gray or brown), matching the substrate for camouflage and survival purposes. About 10 % of this species is xanthomorphic, undergoing a color metamorphosis at varying stages of growth (Ref. 7335). An experimental fish being used for behavioral studies (Ref. 4537).
Spawn preferentially on the ceiling of natural caves (Ref. 38966). Deposit eggs on hard substrates, such as rocks or logs; both parents guarding the eggs and the fry for several weeks (Ref. 44091). 300-1000 eggs (Ref. 2060).
Kullander, S.O., 2003. Cichlidae (Cichlids). p. 605-654. In R.E. Reis, S.O. Kullander and C.J. Ferraris, Jr. (eds.) Checklist of the Freshwater Fishes of South and Central America. Porto Alegre: EDIPUCRS, Brasil. (Ref. 36377)
IUCN Rote Liste Status (Ref. 130435: Version 2025-2 (Global))
