American Cichlid – Festivum Flag Cichlid – 6cm

Festivum Flag Cichlid: Graceful and Peaceful Addition

The Festivum Flag Cichlid (Mesonauta festivus), also called the Barred Cichlid, is a peaceful and elegant freshwater fish native to South America’s slow-moving rivers. Known for its slim, oval-shaped body and striking vertical stripes, this cichlid brings beauty and calm activity to any aquarium. Its gentle temperament makes it a great choice for community tanks.

Size and Lifespan

Festivum Cichlids grow up to 15 cm, with males and females reaching similar sizes. With proper care and a stable environment, they can live for 8–10 years, offering a long-lasting and graceful presence in your tank.

Tank Size and Requirements

A tank of at least 150 liters is ideal for these active swimmers. They thrive in water temperatures of 24°C–28°C, with a pH range of 6.0–7.5. Decorate the tank with driftwood, rocks, and plants to provide hiding spots. Additionally, keep the lighting dim to mimic their natural habitat and reduce stress. They prefer soft, slightly acidic water for optimal health.

Tank Mates

Festivum Flag Cichlids are peaceful and coexist well with other calm species. Suitable tank mates include angelfish, tetras, Corydoras, and Plecos. Avoid aggressive or overly territorial fish, as Festivum Cichlids prefer a more tranquil environment. Keeping them in groups of three or more helps reduce stress and encourages natural behavior.

Feeding

These omnivores enjoy a varied diet. Feed them high-quality flakes or pellets as their main food. Supplement their meals with live or frozen treats such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, or daphnia. Including occasional vegetable-based foods like spirulina flakes or blanched zucchini ensures balanced nutrition and supports their overall health.

Breeding Festivum Flag Cichlids

Breeding Festivum Cichlids is relatively straightforward in the right conditions. They form monogamous pairs and lay eggs on flat surfaces such as rocks or plant leaves. Both parents take part in guarding the eggs and fry. To encourage breeding, maintain pristine water conditions and provide multiple spawning sites. Feed the fry with finely crushed flakes or baby brine shrimp to ensure healthy growth.

FAQs

How big do Festivum Flag Cichlids get?
They grow up to 15 cm, making them suitable for medium to large aquariums.

Are they aggressive?
No, they are peaceful and do well in calm, community tanks.

What tank mates are suitable?
Angelfish, tetras, Corydoras, and Plecos are excellent companions for Festivum Cichlids.

What do they eat?
They thrive on a mix of flakes, live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, and occasional vegetable-based options like zucchini.

How do they breed?
They lay eggs on flat surfaces, and both parents protect the fry. Clean water and suitable spawning sites encourage successful breeding.

Species Overview

• Species: Mesonauta festivus
• Common Name: Festivum Flag Cichlid, Barred Cichlid
• Origin: South America
• Diet: Omnivore
• PH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Temperature: 24°C–28°C
• Max Size: Up to 15 cm
• Tank Size: Minimum 150 liters