Fin's Fish Guide
The False yellowjacket cichlid (Parachromis motaguensis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Central America; moderately to fast-flowing water of the lower and middle reaches of rivers.
Description
The Motagua cichlid is a robust, predatory cichlid from Central America. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a stocky, silvery to yellowish body with irregular black blotches and, in the breeding season, brighter colours. It inhabits lakes and rivers and prefers moderate to fast-flowing water of the lower and middle reaches. As a decided predator with a large mouth it hunts fishes, crustaceans and large insects. Cichlids show intensive brood care and fiercely guard their eggs and young. The species is sometimes kept in the aquarium and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the False yellowjacket cichlid?
The False yellowjacket cichlid has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Large fish-eater with a big mouth and irregular black blotches; fierce parental care.
Where does the False yellowjacket cichlid live?
The False yellowjacket cichlid lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central America; moderately to fast-flowing water of the lower and middle reaches of rivers.
How big does the False yellowjacket cichlid get?
The False yellowjacket cichlid grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the False yellowjacket cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the False yellowjacket cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the False yellowjacket cichlid edible?
The False yellowjacket cichlid is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Parachromis
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the False yellowjacket cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the False yellowjacket cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.