The green terror cichlid is a popular South American cichlid found in Peru and Ecuador. While its name it implies it’s a monster this species is not that bad. Most cichlids are aggressive for the most part anyway. Smaller green terror fish are less aggressive but it does increase when they are adults and in particular protecting their territory.

 

 

 

 

Green terrors are known as Aequidens rivulatus originally but the genus seemed have changed to Andinoacara rivulatus more recently. There is another cichlid which is also found in Ecuador that shares a similar name and that is Cichlasoma festae known as the red terror. Green terror cichlids apparently have different color strains. This is evident by the dorsal and caudal fin coloration which usually has a bright orange strip or white strip along the edge on the fin. They also can be labeled as Gold Saum and Silver Saum too. Certainly A. rivulatus is any color variety is a beautiful cichlid to keep.

 

 

Males are generally larger than females and they develop a bump on their head as they mature and age. These bumps are referred to as nuchal humps and are quiet impressive when developed and adds to their appeal. In terms of tank size a 55 gallon tank or larger would be suitable for these guys. Make sure to provide gravel and hiding places using clay flower pots, PVC tubing or slate. Remember mechanical filtration and water changes are key. These South American cichlids can tolerate a decent range in pH, most water from the tap should be fine without having to alter the pH.

 

 

Like all substratum spawning cichlid Green terrors females lay their eggs on flat or hard surfaces and the males fertilize them. They make great parents or residents in a community cichlid tank with cichlids of equal temperament. With any cichlids they need a territory to establish and adequate hiding places.