Fin's Fish Guide
The Montecristo cichlid (Oscura heterospila) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 24 cm.
Description
The Oscura cichlid is a cichlid (Cichlidae) from Central America. The species has a stocky body with a mottled pattern. It inhabits the middle and lower reaches of rivers. As an omnivore it searches the bottom for small invertebrates, insect larvae, algae and plant matter. As a cichlid it is a caring brood-tender that lays its eggs on a hard substrate and guards them. Owing to a lack of data the species is regarded as data deficient. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Montecristo cichlid?
The Montecristo cichlid has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Central American river cichlid; caring brood tender, 'data deficient' for lack of data.
Where does the Montecristo cichlid live?
The Montecristo cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central America; middle and lower reaches of rivers.
How big does the Montecristo cichlid get?
The Montecristo cichlid grows to a maximum of about 24 cm.
Is the Montecristo cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Montecristo cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Montecristo cichlid edible?
The Montecristo cichlid is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Montecristo cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Montecristo cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Montecristo cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Montecristo cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.