Aequidens metae – Peaceful & Colorful South American Cichlid

🌊 Aequidens metae – Peaceful & Colorful South American Cichlid

The Aequidens metae, also known as the Metae Cichlid, is a peaceful and beautifully patterned species native to the Meta River region of Colombia. This medium-sized South American cichlid displays vibrant blues, yellows, and subtle red accents, making it a stunning centerpiece for community or cichlid aquariums.

Known for its calm temperament and striking coloration, Aequidens metae is ideal for aquarists seeking an attractive yet manageable cichlid that thrives in well-structured aquascapes with rockwork and driftwood.

🌟 Key Features

• ✨ Brilliant Coloration: Metallic blue body with golden hues and red-tinted fins
• 🐟 Peaceful Personality: One of the calmer cichlid species—great for semi-community setups
• 🌿 Easy to Care For: Hardy and adaptable to a range of freshwater conditions
• 🧬 Distinctive Markings: Horizontal black band and subtle iridescence add to its charm
• 💧 Breeding Behavior: Forms pairs and guards eggs carefully in captivity

⚙️ Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Aequidens metae
• Common Name: Metae Cichlid
• Origin: Meta River Basin, Colombia (South America)
• Adult Size: 6–7 inches
• Tank Size: 55 gallons minimum for pairs
• Temperament: Semi-peaceful; compatible with similarly sized fish
• Diet: Omnivore – pellets, flakes, frozen foods, and vegetable matter
• Water Temperature: 74–82°F
• pH Range: 6.5–7.5
• Lifespan: 8–10 years

💡 Tank Setup Tips

• Provide driftwood, caves, and stones for territory and breeding sites.
• Use soft to moderately hard water and maintain good filtration.
• Avoid aggressive cichlids or very small tankmates.
• Ideal companions include Geophagus, Severums, Keyhole Cichlids, and larger tetras.

❓ FAQ

Q: Are Aequidens metae aggressive?
A: They are relatively peaceful compared to most cichlids, showing mild territorial behavior mainly during breeding.

Q: Can they be kept in a planted tank?
A: Yes! They won’t typically uproot plants—use hardy species like Java Fern, Anubias, and Amazon Swords.

Q: What do they eat?
A: They thrive on a mixed diet of quality cichlid pellets, bloodworms, and spirulina-based foods.

Q: How can I tell males from females?
A: Males tend to grow slightly larger with more pointed fins and more intense coloration.