Fin's Fish Guide
The False red terror (Mayaheros urophthalmus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 39 cm.
Atlantic slope of Central America, mainly the Yucatán Peninsula (Mexico to Nicaragua).
Description
The Mayan cichlid is a robust cichlid from Central America, especially the Yucatán Peninsula. The species has an olive body with six to eight dark cross-bars and a conspicuous black eyespot on the tail base; in the breeding season the throat and belly turn red. It reaches about 40 cm and inhabits freshwater marshes, mangroves, lagoons and rivers, and even tolerates seawater. The diet consists of small fishes and larger invertebrates. As a substrate brooder a pair deposits the eggs on the bottom and both parents guard the young. The species has become invasive in Florida.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the False red terror?
The False red terror has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly multicoloured and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Black eyespot on the caudal peduncle; substrate brooder; tolerates brackish and even salt water; invasive in Florida.
Where does the False red terror live?
The False red terror lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Atlantic slope of Central America, mainly the Yucatán Peninsula (Mexico to Nicaragua).
How big does the False red terror get?
The False red terror grows to a maximum of about 39 cm.
Is the False red terror dangerous to humans?
No, the False red terror is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the False red terror edible?
Yes, the False red terror is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Mayaheros
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the False red terror?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the False red terror is one of 12,519 species in the app.