Grammodes cichlid for sale Chiapaheros grammodes

Native to rivers in Mexico and Guatemala, the vibrant Chiapaheros grammodes cichlid makes a lively addition to community tanks when provided with ample space and water conditions mimicking their natural habitat. Their bright pink bodies decorated with electric blue polka dots offer unique aesthetics.

While males can spar with each other, especially during spawning, C. grammodes are generally peaceful tankmates when kept in groups of 5 or more individuals. They do well in moderately hard, alkaline water within the temperature range of 68-82°F.

Appearance and Coloration

Chiapaheros grammodes display a pinkish-orange base body color covered in bright cobalt blue spots, giving them a distinctive pattern. They have an oval shaped, laterally compressed body. Males reach up to 5 inches long and exhibit slightly longer dorsal and ventral fins. Females show reduced spotting when breeding.

Natural Habitat and Behavior

In the wild, C. grammodes inhabit river basins, lakes, and streams in southern Mexico and Guatemala. They favor beds of submerged wood and areas with rock crevices which offer shelter and ambush sites for hunting insect larvae, small crustaceans and plant matter. Juveniles form schools while adults are more solitary and territorial.

Creating the Perfect Chiapaheros grammodes Habitat

In home aquariums, C. grammodes need at least a 40 gallon tank with fine gravel substrate, ample rocky hides and driftwood. Plants along the back provide territory markers. The water should be moderately hard and alkaline with a pH between 7.0-8.0. Current can be moderate. Tankmates can include other similar sized Central American cichlids.

Feeding Chiapaheros grammodes

Chiapaheros grammodes are omnivorous, readily accepting quality flake, pellet and frozen foods for cichlids. Supplement with live or frozen brine shrimp, bloodworms and vegetables like zucchini. Feed 2-3 times daily an amount they can consume within 2-3 minutes.

Breeding and Reproduction Breeding pairs form monogamous bonds. Females lay around 200-400 eggs on flat stones then both parents guard the eggs and care for the fry. Parents may need to be removed to protect the fry. Fry can eat fine powdered flakes and baby brine shrimp.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum tank size for Chiapaheros grammodes?
A 40 gallon aquarium is the minimum recommended size.

What causes the blue spots on C. grammodes?
The blue spots are part of the natural color patterning, the intensity may increase when breeding.

Are Chiapaheros grammodes aggressive?
Moderate to conspecifics, but generally peaceful with other tankmates. Increase tank space.

Can I add tankmates for C. grammodes?
Yes, robust Central American cichlids around the same size like firemouths or Convicts.

What water conditions are needed?
Moderately hard, alkaline water with pH 7.0-8.0. Temperature 68-82°F.

What should I feed Chiapaheros grammodes?
Vary diet with flakes, pellets, frozen and live foods. Supplement with vegetables.

Conclusion

With their bright pink bodies adorned with electric blue spots, Chiapaheros grammodes offer aesthetically intriguing and relatively peaceful additions to community tanks when provided with adequate space. Their unique behaviors and parenting will interest aquarists dedicated to bringing out their best colors and health.