Fin's Fish Guide
The Pantano cichlid (Cincelichthys pearsei) is a brackish-water fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 42 cm.
Central America; Usumacinta basin of southern Mexico and northern Guatemala, lakes and lower rivers.
Description
The pantano cichlid is a Central American cichlid from the Usumacinta basin of southern Mexico and northern Guatemala. The species grows to up to about 42 cm (males) and has a deep, stocky, olive-brown to greyish body with a few dark blotches. It inhabits lakes and the lower river valley and tolerates brackish water. As a predominantly herbivorous omnivore it grazes water plants, algae and detritus, supplemented with small invertebrates. Cichlids form pairs and guard their eggs and young on a cleaned substrate. The pantano cichlid is a local food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pantano cichlid?
The Pantano cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Deep, stocky body; mainly herbivorous cichlid that tolerates brackish water.
Where does the Pantano cichlid live?
The Pantano cichlid lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central America; Usumacinta basin of southern Mexico and northern Guatemala, lakes and lower rivers.
How big does the Pantano cichlid get?
The Pantano cichlid grows to a maximum of about 42 cm.
Is the Pantano cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Pantano cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Pantano cichlid edible?
Yes, the Pantano cichlid is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
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Status & sources
Same genus Cincelichthys
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Pantano cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pantano cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.