XL Red Dovii (10-11”)

Scientific Name:

Parachromis dovii (Red Morph)

Maximum Size:

• Males: Up to 30 inches 

• Females: Typically smaller, around 18–24 inches (45–61 cm)

Recommended Aquarium Size and Care:

• Minimum Tank Size:

  • Solo specimen: At least 180 gallons (946 liters)

  • Pair or Mixed with other (with extreme caution): 250+ gallons

• Tank Setup:

  • Heavy-duty filtration required due to waste production

  • Strong current and good oxygenation

  • Hiding places with rocks or driftwood (though they may rearrange decor)

  • Secure lids—they’re strong and can jump

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)

  • pH: 6.8–8.0

  • Weekly 50% Waterchanges

• Behavior & Tankmates:

  • Extremely territorial and aggressive

  • Best kept alone or in a carefully monitored mated pair

  • Not suited for mixed cichlid tanks (Not Recommended)

  • Clean tank with caution they have no problem trying to bite their owner

Diet:

• Carnivorous Predator in the wild

• Captive Diet Should Include:

  • High-quality pellets for large carnivorous cichlids

  • Frozen foods: Shrimp, fish fillets, krill, silversides
    

  • Avoid feeding fatty meats like beef heart regularly

Species Overview:

• The Red Dovii is a selectively bred color morph of the Wolf Cichlid (Parachromis dovii), known for intense red or orange hues especially in males.

• They are among the largest and most aggressive Central American cichlids in the hobby.

• Known for their intelligence, personality, and predatory instincts.

Natural Habitat:

• Native Range: Rivers and lakes of Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica

• Habitat Characteristics:

  • Warm, slow to moderate flowing freshwater

  • Rocky and submerged wood environments

  • Typically found in deeper pools or along riverbanks

Breeding:

• Breeding in Captivity: Possible but challenging

• Pairing: Only long-term bonded pairs may coexist without fatal aggression

• Spawning Behavior:

  • Female lays hundreds of eggs on flat surfaces

  • Both parents aggressively guard eggs and fry

  • Fry become free-swimming after 4–7 days post-hatch

• Parental Care: Excellent but can turn on each other if tank is too small or stress occurs

• Growth Rate: Rapid—juveniles can double in size in months

Important Notes:

• Only suitable for experienced aquarists due to aggression and size

• Long lifespan of 15+ years with proper care

• Not ideal for ornamental tanks—require species-specific setups