Green terror Care Guide

Overview

The Green Terror (scientific name: Andinoacara rivulatus) is a popular cichlid known for its vibrant coloration and assertive personality. These fish are medium to large-sized cichlids native to the freshwater rivers of South America. Due to their territorial and aggressive nature, Green Terrors are best suited for experienced aquarists.

Tank Setup

Green Terrors require a spacious tank to thrive. A minimum tank size of 75 liters per fish is recommended. It's important to ensure that there is ample swimming space along with hiding spots for the fish. Caves, rocks, and driftwood can be used to create territorial boundaries. The substrate should be soft to allow for digging behaviors, and plants should be chosen with care as Green Terrors may uproot them. It is crucial to maintain clean water, with regular water changes to keep nitrate levels low.

Water Conditions

Green Terrors are resilient yet require specific water parameters to stay healthy. The pH should be kept between 6.0 and 8.0. Maintain the water temperature between 22°C and 28°C to mimic their natural habitat conditions. A reliable filtration system will help maintain stable water quality.

Feeding

Green Terrors are omnivorous and have a varied diet. A balanced diet should include high-quality flakes, pellets, and a variety of live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, tubifex worms, and daphnia. Enrich their diet with vegetable matter and color-enhancing foods. Be cautious with feeder fish to prevent disease introduction.

Behavior and Compatibility

Green Terrors exhibit aggressive and territorial behavior, which can intensify during breeding periods. They should not be housed with smaller or more peaceful species. Potential tank mates include other large, semi-aggressive cichlids that can hold their own. Always monitor interactions closely.

Maintenance

Maintaining a Green Terror tank requires moderate effort. Regular tank cleaning, water changes, and monitoring of water quality parameters are essential. Provide a varied diet to ensure nutritional balance. Observing the fish for signs of stress or disease is crucial for their well-being.

Breeding

Breeding Green Terrors can be challenging due to their heightened aggression levels. It is advisable to have a separate breeding tank to provide a controlled environment. During breeding, they can be highly aggressive towards each other and other tank inhabitants. Ensure plenty of hiding spaces and closely monitor for breeding aggression to prevent injuries.