Mayan cichlid (Mayaheros urophthalmus) Breeding Care, Size, Species, For Sale

Mayan cichlids for sale (Mayaheros urophthalmus) online with expedited shipping. Shop our extensive listings for Central American cichlids now! Mayaheros urophthalmus, also known as the Mayan cichlid or Mexican mojarra is a species of cichlid found in Middle America. It is native to the Atlantic slope of tropical Mesoamerica, ranging from eastern Mexico southward to Nicaragua. Native Range: Tropical America. Atlantic Slope drainages from Rio Coatzacoalcos basin in Mexico southward into Nicaragua, including Isla Mujeres and Yucatan Peninsula (Conkel 1993; Greenfield and Thomerson 1997).

Mayan cichlid fish seem very similar to Cichlasoma festae (Red Terror from South America) and people commonly mistake them. Read more about possible Mayan cichlid tankmates. Florida populations have persisted in spite of severe cold spells, drought, floods, and salinity fluctuations. This voracious predator has the potential to be one of the most damaging introduced cichlids (Courtenay, personal communication) and has certainly become one of the most widespread and successful cichlids after only three decades in Florida. It is also one of the most abundant fish in angler catches in some Everglades canals (Shafland et al. 2008).

Largest measured by Commission scientists was 12.6 inches and weighed 1.5 pounds, but may reach larger sizes as the IGFA world record is listed at 15 inches and 2.5 pounds; maximum reported age is 7 years.

FAQ's

What is Mayaheros urophthalmus?

Mayaheros urophthalmus is a cichlid species native to Central America where it occurs in rivers of the Yucatan Peninsula and parts of Guatemala and Belize. Commonly known as the Mayan cichlid or Mexican mojarra, it is a popular aquarium fish prized for its bright coloration and interesting behaviors.

What is their natural habitat?

In the wild, Mayaheros urophthalmus lives in warm, vegetated rivers, canals, and lakes, often near shorelines or submerged structure. They prefer slow-moving or stagnant waters with soft, acidic conditions.

How large do Mayan cichlids grow?

Mayaheros urophthalmus can reach up to 16 inches (40 cm) in length in the wild. In home aquariums, they generally max out around 10-12 inches (25-30 cm) when fully grown and properly cared for.

What do they eat?

Mayaheros urophthalmus are omnivorous in the wild, feeding on plant matter, worms, insects, crustaceans and other small invertebrates. In captivity they readily accept flake foods, pellets, frozen and live foods.

What size tank do they need?

Mayan cichlids require at least a 55 gallon aquarium when fully grown. Provide plenty of open swimming space along with roots, rocks and caves for hiding and establishing territories.

Are Mayan cichlids aggressive?

Yes, Mayaheros urophthalmus can be highly territorial and aggressive, especially during spawning. Keep either singly or in a species tank. Tankmates should be robust, similar-sized cichlids.

Underwater Video Footage of a Mayan Cichlid Fish

References

Mayan Cichlid (Cichlasoma urophthalmus) - Species Profile
Cichlasoma urophthalmus :: Florida Museum of Natural History
Mayan Cichlid: cichlasoma urophthalmus