Fin's Fish Guide
The Rio Grande cichlid (Herichthys cyanoguttatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Southern North America and northern Mexico; pools and flowing river sections.
Description
The Rio Grande cichlid is a cichlid (Cichlidae) from the southern United States and northern Mexico; it is the only cichlid native to the United States. The species has a deep, greyish body densely studded with shiny blue-green and white spots. It inhabits pools and runs of small to large rivers and prefers warm water with vegetation. As an omnivore it eats worms, crustaceans, insects, plant matter and detritus. It forms pairs and is a caring brood-tender. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Rio Grande cichlid?
The Rio Grande cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. The only cichlid that occurs naturally in the US; covered with blue-green spots, a caring parent.
Where does the Rio Grande cichlid live?
The Rio Grande cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southern North America and northern Mexico; pools and flowing river sections.
How big does the Rio Grande cichlid get?
The Rio Grande cichlid grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 11 cm.
Is the Rio Grande cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Rio Grande cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Rio Grande cichlid edible?
The Rio Grande cichlid is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Herichthys
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Rio Grande cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Rio Grande cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.