Carpintis Cichlid (4-5”)

Scientific Name:

Herichthys carpintis

Maximum Size and Lifespan:

• Size: Up to 12 inches (30 cm), though 8–10 inches is more typical in home aquaria.

• Lifespan: Typically 10–15 years with proper care.

Recommended Aquarium Size:

• Minimum tank size:

  • Single adult: At least 75 gallons

  • Pair or community setup: 125-180 gallons or more

• Carpintis are large, territorial, and messy, requiring ample swimming space and territory.

Water Changes and General Care:

• Water Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)

• pH Range: 6.5–8.0

• Water Change: 30–50% weekly

• Filtration: Heavy filtration required; high bioload producer

• Substrate: Sand or fine gravel is preferred

• Decor: Provide caves, rocks, and driftwood for territories and shelter. Plants will most likely be uprooted or destroyed.

Tankmates:

Due to their territorial and aggressive nature (especially during breeding), tankmates should be chosen with care.
Suitable tankmates (if tank is large enough):

• Other large Central/South American cichlids, Robust catfish, Sailfin Pleco, Pictus Catfish, Silver Dollars (in groups), Large barbs or tinfoil barbs

Avoid:

• Small fish (they will be eaten)

• Passive or slow-moving species

• Other aggressive species in small tanks

Diet:

Carpintis Cichlids are omnivores with a preference for protein-rich foods.
Diet should include:

• Cichlid Gold, Xtreme Big Fella, and Norfin Cichlid formula Pellets

• Frozen foods: Bloodworms, krill, mysis shrimp,Shrimp,Tilapia
  Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times daily with 1 day to fast and clear out their systems. Adults can be fed 3-5 times per week.

Overview:

The Carpintis Cichlid is known for its striking blue pearlescent spots and bold personality. It is often confused with the Texas Cichlid (Herichthys cyanoguttatus), but Carpintis tends to have larger, more defined spots and a slightly more slender body. While beautiful, it is not ideal for peaceful community setups due to its aggressive temperament and space requirements. This fish is mainly captive bred in todays trade.

Natural Environment:

• Geographic Range: Native to eastern Mexico, particularly in slow-moving rivers and lakes in the Pánuco River drainage.

• Habitat: Warm, murky waters with submerged wood, sandy bottoms, and moderate vegetation. They thrive in both still and slightly flowing waters.

Breeding:

• Reproductive Style: Substrate spawners; monogamous pairs

• Sexual Dimorphism: Males are typically larger, have more pointed dorsal and anal fins, and may develop a nuchal hump.

• Breeding Tank: At least 75 gallons for a pair

• Spawning Behavior:

  • Pairs will clean a flat rock or surface

  • Female lays 100–1000+ eggs, which the male fertilizes

  • Both parents guard the eggs and fry aggressively

  • Eggs hatch in 2–4 days, free-swimming after about 5–7 days

  • Fry can be fed live baby brine shrimp and finely crushed flake/pellet food once larger

• Parental care is strong; however, aggression spikes during breeding—tank dividers or separate tanks may be needed.