Red Terror Cichlid (Amphilophus festae) is a advanced-level freshwater fish that needs at least 150 gallons and 75-82°F. A big, bold Central and South American cichlid with a blue-green body and a red-orange flush. It is strong, digs, and can be fierce toward tankmates, so it is a one-fish centerpiece for a very large tank.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Amphilophus festae |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | Pacific slope of Ecuador and Peru |
| Adult size | 14-16 in |
| Minimum tank | 150 gallons |
| Temperature | 75-82°F |
| pH | 6.5-8.0 |
| Temperament | Aggressive, territorial |
| Social behavior | Solitary or a bonded pair in a very large tank |
| Swim level | Bottom to mid |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Diet | Carnivore leaning omnivore: cichlid pellets, frozen foods, earthworms |
| Typical lifespan | 10-15 years |
Quick tips
- Plan for 150 gallons or more for one adult.
- Keep only with similar large, tough fish, if at all.
- Use heavy decor and secure equipment; it digs and moves things.
San Diego water
Tolerates San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water (pH roughly 7.6-8.6) with slow acclimation and a conditioner that handles chloramine. 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