Black Nasty Cichlid (1.5-1.75”)

Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Nandopsis haitiensis

• Common Names: Black Nasty Cichlid, Haitian Cichlid, Odo Cichlid

• Family: Cichlidae

• Origin: Hispaniola (Haiti and the Dominican Republic)

• Temperament: Extremely aggressive and territorial

• Lifespan: 10–15 years

 Habitat

• Natural Environment:
  Found in freshwater rivers, lakes, and streams with rocky or sandy substrates in Hispaniola. These waters tend to be warm, moderately hard, and alkaline, with good oxygenation.

• Water Conditions:

  • Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)

  • pH: 6.8-8

  • Prefers very stable and clean water with little fluctuation

Diet

• Carnivorous/omnivorous:
  In the wild, they feed on:

  • Small fish

  • Invertebrates

  • Insect larvae

  • Organic debris

• In Captivity:
  Feed a high-protein, varied diet:

  • High-quality cichlid pellets or sticks

  • Frozen or live foods: bloodworms, krill, mealworms, earthworms

  • Occasional vegetables or spirulina pellets for fiber

  • Avoid overfeeding fatty meats or feeder fish (can cause health issues)

Feeding should be consistent but controlled — they can become obese easily.

 Maximum Size

• Males: Up to 12–14 inches (30–36 cm)

• Females: Typically 8–10 inches (20–25 cm)

• Males develop more intense coloration and longer dorsal/anal fins

Minimum Tank Size:

• • 75 gallons

• Breeding Pair or Display Specimen:

  • 125–150+ gallons

• With Tank Mates:

  • 180+ gallons, but even then, success is limited due to aggression

• Tank Setup:

  • Substrate: Sand or fine gravel

  • Decor:

    • Large rocks, caves, and driftwood to establish territory

    • Open swimming areas

  • Plants: Use with caution — they’ll likely uproot them

  • Filtration: Powerful mechanical + biological filtration

  • Water Movement: Moderate with surface agitation

 Tank Mates

• Possible Tank Mates (Experienced Keepers Only):

  • Large Central American cichlids (e.g., Jaguar Cichlid, Midas Cichlid, Dovii)

  • Large, robust plecos (e.g., Sailfin Pleco)

  • Only if space and territory are sufficient

Even potential tank mates may eventually be attacked or killed — this species often does best solo.

Notes on Behavior and Care

• Highly territorial, especially during breeding

• Recognizes its owner and will interact boldly

• Should be monitored closely when paired or housed with other fish

• Breeding pairs can become hyper-aggressive

• Sexing is easiest once the fish reach maturity — males are larger and more vibrantly colored