Freshwater
Cichlid
More details
Jaguar Cichlid (Parachromis managuensis)
Pro
Pro
Description
A fierce and visually stunning predator from Central America, the Jaguar Cichlid is known for its jaguar-like black spotting, massive size, and aggressive temperament. It’s a true statement fish for experienced aquarists.
Difficulty Level
Expert Only
Region
Jaguar Cichlid (Parachromis managuensis)
Core Details
Highlights
Care Level
/ 10
High aggression, large size, and water quality needs make this a species for seasoned keepers.
Environment Impact
/ 10
Captive-bred fish are widely available; wild populations face localized pressure from habitat loss.
Origin
Native to freshwater lakes and rivers of Nicaragua and Honduras, especially Lake Managua and surrounding lowland drainages.
Visual & Behavioral Appeal
Silvery-gold base with bold, irregular black spots and bars that resemble a jaguar’s rosettes. Males can grow over 16 inches and exhibit metallic sheen and extended fins. Known for intelligence and territorial aggression.
Purpose
Serves as a solo showpiece or breeding display cichlid. Offers nonstop movement, bold interaction with viewers, and complex spawning behavior.
Importance
Highly sought after for its dramatic appearance and personality. Offers a glimpse into apex predator dynamics in a freshwater setting. Demands respect and attention to setup.
Included Resources
Requires powerful filtration, heavy décor (rocks, driftwood), and open territory. Must have a secure lid. Strong heaters and consistent water parameters are essential.
Best Use Cases
Perfect for species-only tanks, predator-themed setups, or public aquarium displays. Can be paired with other large, aggressive cichlids in massive systems (180 gal+).
Conservation Context
Not endangered but vulnerable to habitat degradation in native range. Widely bred in captivity, which reduces wild harvesting pressure.
Ideal Aquatic Species
• Other Parachromis (with caution)
• Large catfish (e.g., Pimelodus, Pseudoplatystoma)
• Silver dollars (in large tanks)
• Plecos (robust species only)
Region (A)
• Latitude: 12.1578° N
• Longitude: -86.2514° W
(Lake Managua, Nicaragua)
Region (B)
• Latitude: 14.1000° N
• Longitude: -87.2167° W
(Río Ulúa drainage, Honduras)
How Many Can I Keep?
Get smart stocking suggestions based on your tank size.
e.g. 75 gallons (280 L)
Jaguar Cichlid (Parachromis managuensis)
Core Details
Highlights
Care Level
/ 10
High aggression, large size, and water quality needs make this a species for seasoned keepers.
Environment Impact
/ 10
Captive-bred fish are widely available; wild populations face localized pressure from habitat loss.
Origin
Native to freshwater lakes and rivers of Nicaragua and Honduras, especially Lake Managua and surrounding lowland drainages.
Visual & Behavioral Appeal
Silvery-gold base with bold, irregular black spots and bars that resemble a jaguar’s rosettes. Males can grow over 16 inches and exhibit metallic sheen and extended fins. Known for intelligence and territorial aggression.
Purpose
Serves as a solo showpiece or breeding display cichlid. Offers nonstop movement, bold interaction with viewers, and complex spawning behavior.
Importance
Highly sought after for its dramatic appearance and personality. Offers a glimpse into apex predator dynamics in a freshwater setting. Demands respect and attention to setup.
Included Resources
Requires powerful filtration, heavy décor (rocks, driftwood), and open territory. Must have a secure lid. Strong heaters and consistent water parameters are essential.
Best Use Cases
Perfect for species-only tanks, predator-themed setups, or public aquarium displays. Can be paired with other large, aggressive cichlids in massive systems (180 gal+).
Conservation Context
Not endangered but vulnerable to habitat degradation in native range. Widely bred in captivity, which reduces wild harvesting pressure.
Ideal Aquatic Species
• Other Parachromis (with caution)
• Large catfish (e.g., Pimelodus, Pseudoplatystoma)
• Silver dollars (in large tanks)
• Plecos (robust species only)
Region (A)
• Latitude: 12.1578° N
• Longitude: -86.2514° W
(Lake Managua, Nicaragua)
Region (B)
• Latitude: 14.1000° N
• Longitude: -87.2167° W
(Río Ulúa drainage, Honduras)
How Many Can I Keep?
Get smart stocking suggestions based on your tank size.
e.g. 75 gallons (280 L)
Jaguar Cichlid (Parachromis managuensis)
Core Details
Highlights
Care Level
/ 10
High aggression, large size, and water quality needs make this a species for seasoned keepers.
Environment Impact
/ 10
Captive-bred fish are widely available; wild populations face localized pressure from habitat loss.
Origin
Native to freshwater lakes and rivers of Nicaragua and Honduras, especially Lake Managua and surrounding lowland drainages.
Visual & Behavioral Appeal
Silvery-gold base with bold, irregular black spots and bars that resemble a jaguar’s rosettes. Males can grow over 16 inches and exhibit metallic sheen and extended fins. Known for intelligence and territorial aggression.
Purpose
Serves as a solo showpiece or breeding display cichlid. Offers nonstop movement, bold interaction with viewers, and complex spawning behavior.
Importance
Highly sought after for its dramatic appearance and personality. Offers a glimpse into apex predator dynamics in a freshwater setting. Demands respect and attention to setup.
Included Resources
Requires powerful filtration, heavy décor (rocks, driftwood), and open territory. Must have a secure lid. Strong heaters and consistent water parameters are essential.
Best Use Cases
Perfect for species-only tanks, predator-themed setups, or public aquarium displays. Can be paired with other large, aggressive cichlids in massive systems (180 gal+).
Conservation Context
Not endangered but vulnerable to habitat degradation in native range. Widely bred in captivity, which reduces wild harvesting pressure.
Ideal Aquatic Species
• Other Parachromis (with caution)
• Large catfish (e.g., Pimelodus, Pseudoplatystoma)
• Silver dollars (in large tanks)
• Plecos (robust species only)
Region (A)
• Latitude: 12.1578° N
• Longitude: -86.2514° W
(Lake Managua, Nicaragua)
Region (B)
• Latitude: 14.1000° N
• Longitude: -87.2167° W
(Río Ulúa drainage, Honduras)
How Many Can I Keep?
Get smart stocking suggestions based on your tank size.
e.g. 75 gallons (280 L)
Jaguar Cichlid (Parachromis managuensis)
Region
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