Large Yellow Jacket Cichlid (5-6”)

Male and Female Available! Photo 1 Male and Photo 2 Female

Scientific Name: Parachromis friedrichsthalii

Maximum Size and Lifespan

• Size: Up to 12–14 inches (30–35 cm) for males; females slightly smaller.

• Lifespan: Around 10–12 years in captivity with proper care.

Recommended Aquarium Size

• Minimum Tank Size:

  • 75 gallons for a single adult.

  • 125+ gallons recommended for a breeding pair or community with large tankmates (Lots of caution with mixing this species)

• Substrate & Décor:

  • Use sand or fine gravel; they enjoy digging.

  • Add rocks, caves, driftwood, and territorial barriers.

  • Plants may be uprooted—use hardy species or avoid altogether.

Water Change and Care

• Water Changes: 30–50% weekly, depending on stocking and filtration.

• Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)

• pH: 7.0–8.0

• Filtration: Strong biological and mechanical filtration is a must.

Care Level: Moderate to advanced – high aggression and water cleanliness demand experienced aquarists.

Tankmates

Due to their aggression and territorial behavior, tankmates must be chosen carefully.

Suitable Tankmates (in large tanks):

• Other large Central American cichlids Parachromis managuensis, Amphilophus , Vieja species, Large plecos, Silver dollars (in groups), Large Synodontis catfish (Mix with high caution. The Yellow Jacket is very aggressive!)

Avoid:

• Small or passive fish (they’ll be eaten or bullied)

• Fragile or slow-moving tankmates

• Overcrowding or under-decorated tanks (leads to territorial stress)

Diet

• Diet Type: Carnivorous

• Preferred Foods:

  • High-quality cichlid pellets. Xtreme Big Fella and Hikari Cichlid Gold

  • Frozen: krill, shrimp, Tilapia, bloodworms(For Juveniles), silversides

Avoid feeding:

• Feeder goldfish (disease risk and poor nutrition)

Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times daily in portions they can consume in 1–2 minutes. Fast 1 day a week to avoid bloat. Adults can be fed 3-4 times per week.

Overview

Parachromis friedrichsthalii, or Yellowjacket Cichlid, is a large, predatory Central American cichlid known for its striking yellow body, bold black blotching, and aggressive nature. While often confused with Parachromis loisellei, P. friedrichsthalii has distinct lateral blotches and a more elongated body.

This species thrives in well-maintained, spacious aquariums and offers strong personality, intelligence, and parental care, but requires an experienced keeper due to its aggression.

Natural Environment

• Native Range: Central America — primarily found in Belize, Honduras, and Guatemala.

• Habitat: Inhabits slow-moving rivers, lakes, and lagoons, often with rocky, sandy substrates and submerged structures.

• Prefers warm, oxygenated waters with plenty of hiding areas and hunting space.

Breeding

• Type: Substrate spawner; monogamous pair bonds.

• Pairing: Best formed from a group of juveniles raised together.

• Spawning Behavior:

  • Pair becomes extremely territorial and aggressive.

  • Female lays hundreds of eggs on a cleaned flat rock or pit.

  • Eggs hatch in 3–4 days, fry free-swimming after 5–7 days.

• Parental Care:

  • Both parents provide excellent defense and fry-tending.

  • Fry can be fed baby brine shrimp or powdered fry food.

• Breeding Tank: If breeding in a community tank, provide ample space and barriers, or use a dedicated breeding tank to prevent aggression toward other fish.