Wolf Cichlid (Parachromis dovii) is an advanced-level freshwater fish that needs at least 300 gallons and 75-82°F. One of the largest and most aggressive Central American cichlids. Juveniles look manageable, but adults can reach well over two feet, eat any fish that fits in the mouth and bully almost every tankmate, so it needs a tank of several hundred gallons and heavy filtration.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Parachromis dovii |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | Atlantic and Pacific slopes of Costa Rica, Nicaragua and Honduras |
| Adult size | 24-28 in |
| Minimum tank | 300 gallons |
| Temperature | 75-82°F |
| pH | 6.5-8.0 |
| Temperament | Highly aggressive predator |
| Social behavior | Solitary, or a bonded pair in a very large tank |
| Swim level | Bottom to mid |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Diet | Carnivore: large pellets, whole fish, shrimp, earthworms |
| Typical lifespan | 10-15 years |
Quick tips
- Plan for 300 gallons or more before buying a juvenile.
- Do not keep with small fish; large, tough tankmates only, and only in a very big tank.
- Use a heavy lid and strong filtration; it is a messy eater.
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