Rainbow Cichlid (Herotilapia multispinosa) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 55 gallons and 72-82°F. A small Central American cichlid that changes from a plain, barred look to a bright yellow-orange when breeding. It is hardy and active, eats plants if it can, and gets pushy at spawning time.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Herotilapia multispinosa |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | Honduras to Costa Rica, Central America |
| Adult size | 4-6 in |
| Minimum tank | 55 gallons |
| Temperature | 72-82°F |
| pH | 7.0-8.0 |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive, territorial when breeding |
| Social behavior | Pair or small group in a large tank |
| Swim level | Mid to bottom |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Omnivore: cichlid pellets, frozen foods, vegetable matter |
| Typical lifespan | 8-10 years |
Quick tips
- Use a 55 gallon or larger tank with rocks and caves.
- Choose tankmates of similar size and toughness.
- Expect it to nibble soft plants.
San Diego water
Naturally suited to San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water once it is dechlorinated (the city uses chloramine, so use a conditioner that handles it). 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