Flag Cichlid
Mesonauta festivus
Flag Cichlid has a peaceful temperament.
Save this fish or add it directly to one of your aquariums.
Quick facts
- Adult size
- ≤ 5.9" (≤ 15 cm)
- Aquarium size
- 99 US gal (375 L) or larger / ≥ 39.4" (≥ 100 cm) minimum length
- Care level
- Beginner – Intermediate
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Temperature
- 72–81°F (22–27°C)
- pH
- 5.5–7.5
- GH
- 2–18 dGH
- Diet
- Omnivore
- Lifespan
- up to 10 years
Care requirements
Care level: Beginner – Intermediate.
Lifespan: up to 10 years.
Aquarium size and space needs
Minimum aquarium size: 99 US gal (375 L) or larger / ≥ 39.4" (≥ 100 cm) minimum length. Plan the layout and stocking within that limit.
Water parameters
Suitable water: temperature 22–27 °C, pH 5.5–7.5, GH 2–18 dGH.
Temperament and compatibility
Flag Cichlid is peaceful and suits calm community fish.
Feeding
As an omnivore, Flag Cichlid should receive a varied diet rather than one repeated food type.
Before adding this fish
- Plan for an aquarium of 99 US gal (375 L) or larger / ≥ 39.4" (≥ 100 cm) minimum length.
- Avoid aggressive or highly competitive fish.
- Offer a varied diet that matches this species.
Natural habitat and origin
Origin: Paraguay, Bolivia, Brazil, Peru.
Similar fish profiles
Use these profiles to compare fish with similar care level, size, temperature range, or swimming behavior.
FAQ
How large does Flag Cichlid get?
Flag Cichlid reaches ≤ 5.9" (≤ 15 cm).
What aquarium size does Flag Cichlid need?
Use an aquarium of at least 99 US gal (375 L) or larger / ≥ 39.4" (≥ 100 cm) minimum length.
Is Flag Cichlid peaceful?
Yes. Flag Cichlid is recorded as peaceful and is best planned with calm community fish that do not harass it or dominate the feeding area.
What temperature is suitable for Flag Cichlid?
Keep it between 22 to 27 °C.