Fin's Fish Guide
The Rainbow cichlid (Herotilapia multispinosa) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
The rainbow cichlid is a small cichlid from Central America, from Nicaragua to Costa Rica. The species reaches about 17 cm, is golden-yellow with a dark band and can change colour markedly according to its mood. It inhabits lakes and swampy areas with muddy bottoms and feeds on ooze, detritus and filamentous algae, which it scrapes from the substrate with fine, bicuspid teeth. The species forms pairs in which both parents guard the territory and the young (substrate brooder). It tolerates high temperatures and can survive dry periods in small water bodies; it is a popular aquarium fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Rainbow cichlid?
The Rainbow cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Changes colour markedly; tolerates high temperatures and drought; biparental substrate brooder.
Where does the Rainbow cichlid live?
The Rainbow cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central America, from Nicaragua to Costa Rica.
How big does the Rainbow cichlid get?
The Rainbow cichlid grows to a maximum of about 17 cm. On average the species is around 9 cm.
Is the Rainbow cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Rainbow cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Rainbow cichlid edible?
The Rainbow cichlid is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Rainbow cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Rainbow cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.