Description
Tomocichla tuba
Scientific Name: Tomocichla tuba
Common Names: Tuba Cichlid, Tuba Mesoamerican Cichlid
Overview
The Tomocichla tuba is a striking and relatively rare species of cichlid native to the freshwater rivers and lakes of Central America, particularly found in the countries of Nicaragua and Costa Rica. Known for its unique body shape and vivid coloration, the Tuba Cichlid is a stunning addition to aquariums that can house more robust and larger fish. This species exhibits beautiful yellow, orange, and red hues on its body, with males often being more colorful than females. Tomocichla tuba can be territorial, especially during breeding, but they are an excellent choice for experienced aquarists who enjoy keeping cichlids with a bit more personality and aggression.
Key Information
Size: 8–10 inches (20–25 cm)
Lifespan: 6–10 years
Temperament: Semi-aggressive, territorial during breeding
Diet: Omnivore
Swimming Level: Middle to bottom level
Habitat & Tank Setup
Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons for a single fish, larger for a pair or group
Group Size: Best kept as a pair or alone due to territoriality
Substrate: Fine gravel or sand
Decor: Rocks, driftwood, and caves for hiding and territory marking
Plants: Hardy plants such as Java Fern, Anubias, or Amazon Sword
Lighting: Moderate to bright
Filtration: High-quality filtration with moderate to strong water movement
Water Parameters
Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
pH: 7.0–8.0
Hardness: Moderately hard (8–15 dGH)
Water Quality: Clean, well-oxygenated water with regular water changes
Feeding
Diet Type: Omnivore
Suitable Foods:
High-quality pellets or flakes
Frozen or live foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, earthworms)
Vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, and peas
Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times per day, in moderate portions
Tankmates
Compatible With:
Larger, semi-aggressive fish like other Central American cichlids
Peaceful species that are large enough to coexist with them
Other fish that are not small enough to be seen as prey
Avoid:
Small or delicate species that might be outcompeted for food or harassed
Aggressive species that could cause conflicts
Care Notes
Breeding: Tomocichla tuba is an egg-laying cichlid that forms monogamous pairs. They can be very territorial during breeding, often defending their nesting site aggressively. Providing plenty of hiding spots and space is essential during the breeding season.
Temperament: These cichlids can be aggressive, especially when establishing territories or during breeding. A well-planted tank with many hiding places will help reduce aggression.
Water Quality: Keeping the water clean and stable is crucial. Frequent water changes are necessary to maintain optimal health.
Social Nature: Tomocichla tuba does best in tanks where it is the dominant fish, or when kept with similarly robust species. Males can be quite dominant and territorial, especially when breeding.
Fun Fact
The Tuba Cichlid gets its name from the unique “tuba” shape of its mouth, which is somewhat funnel-shaped, a feature it shares with several other Central American cichlids. This cichlid is an excellent choice for advanced hobbyists who appreciate cichlids with more complex behavior and beautiful coloration, but they require a larger aquarium and well-maintained water conditions to thrive.