Red Breasted Cichlid, Green (Laetacara dorsigera) — > 7cm

Overview

The Red-Breasted Cichlid, scientifically known as Laetacara dorsigera, is a colourful, peaceful dwarf cichlid with attractive red breast markings and engaging pair-bond behaviour. Available for freshwater fish UK, this species reaches up to 6.5cm in length and requires a tank of at least 80 litres. Native to South America, especially the Paraguay and upper Paraná river basins, the Red-Breasted Cichlid is an excellent choice for aquarists seeking peaceful cichlids for sale.

Appearance

A colourful dwarf cichlid with attractive red breast markings. The body is typically olive-green with iridescent highlights. Males may display more intense red colouration on the breast than females.

Natural Habitat

Native to South America, especially the Paraguay and upper Paraná river basins in Brazil, Paraguay, and Bolivia. Inhabits streams with soft, acidic water. Prefers cooler water than typical tropical fish.

Aquarium Setup

A minimum tank size of 80 litres is suitable. Use soft sand substrate, plant densely with hardy plants. Provide driftwood and caves. Filtration must be excellent. Maintain soft, slightly acidic water (pH 6.0-7.0). Keep cooler than typical tropical tanks (20-25°C).

Feeding

Omnivorous. Offer quality cichlid pellets or granules, frozen and live foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp, and occasional vegetable matter or spirulina-based foods.

Behaviour

Forms strong pair bonds. Pairs can become territorial when breeding but are generally peaceful. Parents guard eggs and fry.

Tank Mates

Suitable: small peaceful tetras, rasboras, Corydoras catfish, Otocinclus, peaceful livebearers. Avoid large aggressive cichlids, fin-nipping barbs, very small fry, overly boisterous or territorial fish, and large predatory fish.

Breeding

Forms pair bonds and usually spawns on flat stones, leaves, or in a shallow pit. Parents are generally attentive and may guard eggs and fry. Water quality and low stress are important.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co offers healthy Red-Breasted Cichlids with expert guidance on South American cichlids for sale care. With secure packaging and reliable delivery, we make it easy to buy tropical fish UK with confidence.