Blue-Eyed Cichlid (Cichlasoma spilurum) — 7-9cm

Overview

The tropical fish UK Cichlasoma spilurum, commonly known as the blue-eyed cichlid, is a striking Central American cichlid with vivid blue eyes and bold striping. Available for sale UK through Tropical Fish Co, this active, semi-aggressive species offers rewarding pair-breeding potential and brings personality, color, and energy to well-maintained Central American biotope tanks.

Appearance

Cichlasoma spilurum reaches up to 7–12 cm in length and displays a predominantly blue-grey body with bold black vertical stripes running from dorsal to ventral surfaces. The most striking feature is the bright blue eyes, which contrast beautifully with the dark body markings. Fins are short and rounded, and males may develop slightly larger size and more intense coloration as they mature.

Natural Habitat

This species is native to Central America, where it inhabits slow-moving rivers, streams, and lagoons with sandy or muddy substrates, submerged wood, rocks, and dense vegetation. In the wild, C. spilurum feeds on small invertebrates, insect larvae, algae, and organic matter. These environments are typically warm, slightly acidic to neutral, and rich in hiding places.

Aquarium Setup

Provide a spacious aquarium of at least 150 litres with strong filtration, hiding places, and secure décor. Use smooth rocks, driftwood, and caves to create territories and visual interest. A sand or fine gravel substrate is ideal. Moderate lighting and plenty of cover help reduce stress and encourage natural behavior. Ensure décor is secured, as this species may rearrange substrate.

Water Parameters

Maintain warm, clean water between 24–28°C with a pH of 6.5–7.8. Regular partial water changes (30–50% weekly) and excellent filtration are essential to keep water quality high. This species is sensitive to poor water conditions and parameter fluctuations, requiring consistent maintenance. Avoid sudden shifts and ensure the tank is fully cycled before introduction.

Feeding

Cichlasoma spilurum is an omnivore. Offer a varied diet including quality cichlid pellets, frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and mysis, plus occasional vegetable matter and spirulina-based foods. Feed once or twice daily, and remove uneaten food promptly to maintain water quality.

Behaviour

This cichlid is semi-aggressive, territorial, and forms strong pair bonds when breeding. Males and females work together to defend territories, spawn, and guard fry. Outside of breeding, the species is moderately aggressive but manageable in appropriately sized tanks with suitable tankmates. They are active diggers and may rearrange substrate and décor.

Tank Mates

Ideal companions include robust similarly sized Central American cichlids, large peaceful catfish, plecos, and fast, sturdy dither fish. Avoid small fish, shrimp, slow or long-finned fish, and overly aggressive large cichlids. Choose tankmates that appreciate similar warm, slightly acidic to neutral conditions.

Breeding

A substrate-spawning cichlid that forms pairs and becomes territorial when breeding. Provide caves or flat stones, stable water quality, and separate the pair if they become overly aggressive toward tankmates. Eggs are laid on a flat surface or in a cave, and both parents guard the eggs and fry. Fry can be fed baby brine shrimp and finely crushed foods once free-swimming.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

At Tropical Fish Co UK, we supply healthy, acclimated Cichlasoma spilurum cichlids carefully selected for size, coloration, and vitality. Every fish is quarantined, inspected, and conditioned before dispatch, ensuring you receive a robust, striking specimen ready to thrive in your aquarium. With expert care advice, secure packaging, and a commitment to quality, we make adding this beautiful blue-eyed cichlid to your collection straightforward and rewarding. Order today.