Fin's Fish Guide
The Pearl cichlid (Amphilophus margaritifer) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The pearl cichlid is a cichlid from fresh water of the Amazon basin of South America. The species grows to about 13 cm and has a stocky body with a row of shiny, pearl-like spots on the flank. As a bottom-dweller it lives in slow rivers and pools among roots and wood and feeds on insect larvae, small crustaceans and plant matter. It is a caring parental fish that guards its eggs and young. The fish is harmless to humans and appears in the aquarium hobby. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pearl cichlid?
The Pearl cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Glossy pearly flank spots; caring parent fish
Where does the Pearl cichlid live?
The Pearl cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Amazon basin
How big does the Pearl cichlid get?
The Pearl cichlid grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Pearl cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Pearl cichlid is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Pearl cichlid edible?
The Pearl cichlid is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Amphilophus
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Pearl cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pearl cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.