Festivum Cichlid (Mesonauta festivus) is a intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 55 gallons and 75-82°F. A tall, flat-bodied cichlid with a dark flank stripe. It is calmer than many cichlids but can be territorial when breeding and may eat very small fish.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Mesonauta festivus |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | Amazon and Orinoco basins, South America |
| Adult size | 6 in |
| Minimum tank | 55 gallons |
| Temperature | 75-82°F |
| pH | 5.5-7.5 |
| Temperament | Peaceful to semi-aggressive |
| Social behavior | Pairs or small groups |
| Swim level | Mid |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Omnivore: cichlid pellets, flakes, frozen foods |
| Typical lifespan | 8-10 years |
Quick tips
- Provide height, caves and wood.
- Do not keep with tiny tetras.
- Use a larger tank for a group.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi