The Red Devil Cichlid fish (Amphilophus labiatus), known for its vibrant colors and aggressive behavior, is a popular choice among experienced aquarium enthusiasts. However, maintaining and caring for these fish requires you to have the necessary basic knowledge.
This comprehensive guide covers everything from care requirements and gender differences to breeding, feeding, and compatibility of the Red Devil Cichlid fish, helping you understand what makes this fish both fascinating and challenging.
What is the Red Devil Cichlid fish?
Taxonomy
The Red Devil Cichlid fish is a freshwater fish that belongs to the Cichlidae family, which includes other popular species such as the Oscar and the Jack Dempsey, and is a member of the Midas Cichlid complex (species of the genus Amphilophus spp.).
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Actinopterygii
- Subclass: Neopterygii
- Infraclass: Teleostei
- Superorder: Acanthopterygii
- Order: Perciformes
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Amphilophus
- Species: Amphilophus labiatus (Günther, 1864)
- Synonyms: Heros labiatus, Cichlasoma labiatum
- Common names in Spanish: Pez cíclido diablo rojo, Cíclido diablo rojo, Diablo rojo, Demonio rojo, Cíclido de labios gruesos, Mojarra picuda (Nicaragua)
- Common names in English: Red Devil, Red Devil Cichlid, Red Devil Cichlid Fish
Physical Characteristics
The Red Devil Cichlid fish is admired for its striking appearance, which can range from bright red to orange, white, and even mottled patterns. However, it’s the fish’s robust personality that truly sets it apart.
Velásquez (2008) describes A. labiatus as easily recognizable by its large, fleshy lips, while Barluenga y Meyer (2010) highlight that the fish’s fleshy lips and more elongated snout are traits interpreted as adaptations for feeding on invertebrates and crustaceans among crevices, sealing the substrate and sucking up food.
The male Red Devil averages 24 centimeters in size, though individuals up to 35 cm have been reported. These fish can live up to 12 years.
Habitat of the Red Devil Cichlid
The Red Devil Cichlid fish is native to Lake Nicaragua and Lake Managua in Central America (Ohee et al., 2020), and in the crater lakes of Apoyeque, Masaya, Xiloá, and Apoyo (Velásquez, 2008); in areas with rocky substrates (Barluenga and Meyer, 2010) that serve as feeding grounds for this fish, or in deeper areas to protect themselves from predators (Velásquez, 2008).
Invasion of the Red Devil Cichlid
Through the trade of specimens by the ornamental industry, the Red Devil Cichlid (Amphilophus labiatus) has been introduced to Hawaii and Puerto Rico (USA), Singapore, Lake Senati (Ohee et al., 2018), and the island of Bangka (Jatayu et al., 2023) in Indonesia, and in Australia (Sowersby et al., 2020).
Care Requirements for Red Devil Cichlids
Caring for Red Devil Cichlids requires dedication due to their specific needs and temperamental nature. Below is a breakdown of essential care tips to ensure a healthy and thriving environment for your fish.
Water Quality Parameters
Table 01 provides the main water quality parameters that you should provide for your Red Devil Cichlids.
Table 01. Water quality parameters for the breeding of the Red Devil Cichlid fish (Amphilophus labiatus).
| Parameter | Range |
| Water Volume | 283 liters (75 gallons) for 1 individual 475 liters (125 gallons) for a pair |
| Water Temperature | 28 – 33°C (75 – 82°F) |
| Water pH | 6.5-7.5 |
| Water Hardness | 5-15 dGH |
| Water Change | 20-30% weekly |
- Filtration: Use a high-capacity filter to maintain pristine water conditions. Red Devils are messy eaters, which contributes significantly to waste.
- Substrate and Decorations: Opt for a sandy substrate with rocks and driftwood to mimic their natural habitat. Ensure that the decorations are stable, as these fish are known to dig and rearrange their environment. Research by Lehtonen et al. (2023) concluded that dark morph Red Devils explored their environment more extensively when the substrate was dark brown compared to light-colored substrates, while gold morph individuals did not differ in behavior concerning substrate color.
On the other hand, you should keep the tank covered, as Red Devils are known to jump.
Feeding the Red Devil Cichlid fish
Feeding your Red Devil Cichlid fish a balanced diet is crucial for its health and vitality. These omnivores enjoy a variety of foods, from high-quality pellets to live and frozen treats. In their natural habitat, this fish feeds on small fish, snails, insect larvae, worms, and other organisms living on the bottom, as well as detritus (Velásquez, 2008).
On the other hand, Ariasari et al., (2018) report that in the case of the Sermo Reservoir (Indonesia) where Amphilophus labiatus has been introduced, the fish feeds on fish, crustaceans, detritus, phytoplankton, zooplankton, plants, insects, insect larvae, Chironomus sp., and annelids; they also indicate that a change in the Red Devil’s food preference occurred, with young fish preferring to feed on Chironomus sp. larvae (86.02%), while adult fish preferred fish/fish pieces (81.82%).
Diet Recommendations:
- Basic Diet: High-quality cichlid pellets should form the basis of their diet. These are formulated to provide the necessary nutrients and help maintain vibrant colors.
- Protein Sources: Offer live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and earthworms. These not only satisfy their predatory instincts but also promote muscle growth.
- Vegetables: Supplement their diet with blanched vegetables like spinach, zucchini, and peas. This helps with digestion and adds variety.
- Feeding Schedule: Feed them 2 or 3 times a day in small amounts that they can consume within a few minutes. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and water contamination.
Breeding Red Devil Cichlids
Male vs. Female Red Devil Cichlid: How to Differentiate Them
Adjie y Fatah (2016) reported that the Red Devil Cichlid fish (A. labiatus) matures when it reaches a total length of between 9.66 and 11.47 cm. However, distinguishing between male and female Red Devil Cichlids can be challenging, especially for beginners. However, there are some subtle differences that can help you identify the gender of your fish.
Physical Differences:
- Size: Males are generally larger and bulkier than females. An adult male can reach up to 15 inches, while females are slightly smaller.
- Nuchal Hump: Males develop a prominent nuchal hump on their head as they mature, which is less pronounced in females.
- Dorsal and Anal Fins: Males tend to have longer, more pointed dorsal and anal fins compared to the rounded fins of females.
- Coloration: Both males and females display vibrant colors, but males may have more intense and uniform coloration.
Behavioral Differences:
- Territoriality: Males are more territorial and aggressive, especially during the breeding season. They often display dominant behavior toward females and other tank mates.
- Reproductive Behavior: Females are more involved in preparing and protecting the breeding site. They often show nurturing behavior by “fanning” and guarding the eggs and fry. Sowersby et al., (2017) found that male Red Devils were more aggressive when the pair was first formed, while females significantly increased their territory defense over time and were more aggressive when the fry were free-swimming.
Breeding Red Devil Cichlids: A Step-by-Step Guide
Breeding Red Devil Cichlids can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning due to their aggressive nature, particularly during spawning. Here’s how to successfully breed Red Devil Cichlids in a home aquarium.
Preparation:
- Pair Selection: It is best to allow a pair to form naturally rather than forcing one. Introduce a group of juveniles and let them pair off. Be prepared to separate aggressive fish to prevent injuries.
- Breeding Tank Setup: Use a separate breeding tank of at least 100 gallons with water parameters similar to the main tank.
Use flat rocks or tiles as spawning sites.
Breeding Process:
- Courtship: The male will display intense colors and may become more aggressive. He will clean the chosen spawning site and court the female by circling and nudging her.
- Spawning: Once the female is ready, she will lay up to 1,000 eggs on the prepared surface. The male will then fertilize the eggs. Fecundity in A. labiatus ranges from 677 to 1,378 eggs with egg diameters ranging from 0.4 to 1.59 mm (Adjie and Fatah, 2016).
- Egg Care: Both parents will fiercely guard the eggs. The eggs typically hatch within 3 to 5 days, depending on water temperature.
- Fry Care: After hatching, the fry will absorb their yolk sacs within a few days. Once they are free-swimming, start feeding them with finely crushed flakes or specialized fry food. The parents may continue to care for the fry for several weeks.
Compatibility of Red Devil Cichlids
Due to their aggressive nature, choosing compatible tank mates for Red Devil Cichlids can be challenging. These fish do best either alone or with other large, equally aggressive cichlids in a very spacious tank.
Lehtonen et al., (2023) reported that in Amphilophus cichlids, “dark” and “golden” morphs have previously been associated with differences in morphology, aggressive behavior, and mate choice.
Possible Tank Mates:
- Oscar Cichlids: Another large, aggressive cichlid that can hold its own against the Red Devil.
- Jack Dempsey Cichlids: Known for their hardy nature, they may sometimes coexist with Red Devils in a sufficiently large tank.
- Green Terror Cichlids: As their name suggests, these cichlids are fierce and can match the aggression of Red Devils.
Tank Mate Considerations:
- Tank Size: Ensure the tank is large enough (at least 125 gallons for multiple large cichlids) to provide each fish with its territory.
- Territory: Provide plenty of hiding spots and territories within the tank to reduce aggression. Rocks, caves, and dense vegetation can help establish boundaries.
- Behavior Monitoring: Always closely monitor interactions, especially during feeding times and after introducing new fish. Be prepared to separate the fish if necessary.
Incompatible Tank Mates:
Avoid smaller and more passive fish, as the Red Devil is likely to intimidate or even eat them. Fish such as guppies, tetras, or smaller cichlids will not thrive in the same environment.
Common Diseases and Prevention in Red Devil Cichlids
Like all fish, Red Devil Cichlids are susceptible to certain diseases, particularly under poor water conditions or due to stress. Understanding common diseases and how to prevent them is essential for keeping your fish healthy.
Common Diseases:
- Ich (White Spot Disease): Caused by a parasite, this disease is characterized by white spots on the body and fins. Treatment involves raising the water temperature and using medicinal treatments.
- Hole in the Head Disease (HITH): Common in cichlids, this disease causes lesions on the head and lateral line. It is often associated with poor water quality and a lack of essential nutrients.
- Fin Rot: Caused by bacterial infections, fin rot leads to the deterioration of the fins and can spread rapidly if not treated.
Disease Prevention Tips:
- Maintain Water Quality: Regular water changes and proper filtration are key to preventing diseases. Frequently monitor water parameters to avoid fluctuations.
- Quarantine New Fish: Always quarantine new fish for at least two weeks before introducing them to the main tank to prevent the spread of diseases.
- Balanced Diet: Provide a varied and nutrient-rich diet to boost your Red Devil Cichlid’s immune system.
- Stress Reduction: Minimize stress by maintaining a stable environment, providing adequate space, and avoiding overcrowding.
Conclusion
The Red Devil Cichlid fish is a captivating fish that offers a rewarding experience for those willing to meet its demanding care requirements. From distinguishing between males and females to mastering breeding and understanding compatibility, this guide provides all the necessary information for success with this remarkable species. By ensuring proper care, feeding, and disease prevention, you can enjoy the beauty and unique personality of the Red Devil Cichlid fish in your home aquarium for many years.
References
Adjie, S., & Fatah, K. (2016). BIOLOGI REPRODUKSI IKAN RED DEVIL (Amphilopus labiatus) dan (Amphilopus citrinellus) DIWADUKKEDUNGOMBO, JAWATENGAH. BAWAL Widya Riset Perikanan Tangkap, 7(1), 17-24.
Ariasari, A., Helmiati, S., & Setyobudi, E. (2018, March). Food preference of red devil (Amphilophus labiatus) in the Sermo Reservoir, Kulon Progo Regency. In IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science (Vol. 139, No. 1, p. 012018). IOP Publishing.
Barluenga, M., & Meyer, A. (2010). Phylogeography, colonization and population history of the Midas cichlid species complex (Amphilophus spp.) in the Nicaraguan crater lakes. BMC Evolutionary Biology, 10, 1-20.
Jatayu, D., Insani, L., Valen, F. S., Ramadhanu, D., Hafidz, A. M., Susilo, N. B., … & Hasan, V. (2023, December). Range expansion of Red devil cichlid Amphylopus labiatus,(Günther, 1864)(Actinopterygii: Cichlidae) in Bangka Island, Indonesia. In IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science (Vol. 1267, No. 1, p. 012100). IOP Publishing.
Lehtonen, T. K., Candolin, U., & Wong, B. B. (2023). Environmental variation promotes colour morph-specific behavioural differences in a cichlid fish. Animal Behaviour, 197, 123-130. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.anbehav.2023.01.005
Ohee, H. L., Sujarta, P., Surbakti, S. B., & Barclay, H. (2018). Rapid expansion and biodiversity impacts of the red devil cichlid (Amphilophus labiatus, Günther 1864) in Lake Sentani, Papua, Indonesia. Biodiversitas, 19(6), 2096-2103.
Ohee, H. L., Mote, N., Rice, M. A., & Sujarta, P. (2020). Sex ratio and reproduction of invasive red devil, (Amphilophus labiatus: Cichlidae) in Lake Sentani, Indonesia. Lakes & Reservoirs: Research & Management, 25(3), 334-345. https://doi.org/10.1111/lre.12332
Sowersby, W., Lehtonen, T.K. & Wong, B.B.M. Temporal and sex-specific patterns of breeding territory defense in a color-polymorphic cichlid fish. Hydrobiologia 791, 237–245 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10750-016-2889-1
Sowersby, W., Lehtonen, T.K., Ravinet, M. et al. Resource trait specialisation in an introduced fish population with reduced genetic diversity. Biol Invasions 22, 2447–2460 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10530-020-02264-y
Velásquez Luis. 2008. MANUAL PARA RECONOCER LOS RECURSOS PESQUEROS DE OMETEPE Y PRINCIPALES LEYES QUE LES ATAÑEN. INSTITUTO NICARAGUENSE DE LA PESCA Y ACUICULTURA
(INPESCA) – CENTRO DE INVESTIGACIONES PESQUERAS Y ACUICOLAS (CIPA). 20 p.
