Biotodoma cupido (Wild) – Cupid Cichlid

💘 Biotodoma cupido (Wild) – Cupid Cichlid

📖 Overview The Cupid Cichlid (Biotodoma cupido) is a peaceful South American cichlid found in the Amazon River basin. Known for its subtle silver body with iridescent blue-green highlights and a signature black spot on the flank, this species adds elegance and calm energy to aquariums. Unlike many cichlids, Cupids are gentle and shy, making them an excellent choice for peaceful community setups.

Your wild-caught Cupid Cichlids bring authentic Amazon genetics and natural behavior, making them a prized addition for serious aquarists.

🌟 Key Features

• ✅ Wild-Caught Authenticity: True genetics from Amazon tributaries
• ✅ Peaceful Personality: Unlike most cichlids, Cupids are gentle and shy
• ✅ Subtle Elegance: Silver body with blue-green iridescence and dark flank spot
• ✅ Community-Friendly: Safe with tetras, corydoras, and other peaceful fish
• ✅ Natural Schooling Behavior: Thrive in groups of 5–8+

📐 Care Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Biotodoma cupido
• Common Name: Cupid Cichlid
• Origin: Amazon River Basin (Wild-Collected)
• Size: 4–5 inches
• Lifespan: 5–7 years
• Temperament: Peaceful, shy cichlid
• Tank Size: 55+ gallons (larger schools prefer more space)
• Water Parameters:
• Temperature: 75–82°F
• pH: 5.5–7.0
• Hardness: Soft, tannin-rich preferred
• Diet: Omnivorous – cichlid pellets, flakes, frozen/live foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia)

🧠 Behavior & Tank Mates

• Peaceful Cichlid: Best kept in groups with plenty of hiding spaces
• Tank Mates: Tetras, pencilfish, rasboras, peaceful dwarf cichlids, corydoras, plecos
• Avoid: Aggressive or very large cichlids (e.g., oscars, green terrors)

❓ FAQ

Q: Are wild-caught Cupids harder to care for?
A: They prefer softer, more natural Amazon water, but adapt well with proper acclimation.

Q: Do they dig like other cichlids?
A: Minimal digging compared to earth-eaters, but they do sift substrate when feeding.

Q: Are they good for planted tanks?
A: Yes, they are plant-safe and do well in heavily planted aquariums.