Blue-Eye CIchlid

The Blue-Eye Cichlid, scientifically known as Cryptoheros spilurus, is a small Central American cichlid native to the river systems of Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador, where it inhabits clear to slightly turbid streams, forested creeks, and shallow river margins with moderate flow. Its natural distribution spans the Motagua River drainage, the Ulúa system, the Chamelecón basin, and a network of smaller tributaries and foothill streams that cut through rainforest and semi-deciduous woodland. Across these habitats it occupies rocky edges, submerged roots, leaf-litter pockets, and areas of broken flow where it can forage and establish territories.

Adult Cryptoheros spilurus typically reaches about 4 inches in length and is recognized by its shimmering blue eyes, subtle metallic body tones, patterned flanks, and compact, muscular shape. Both sexes can show iridescent blue and turquoise speckling, especially along the face and shoulders. Their confident posture, expressive movements, and alert behavior make them engaging aquarium inhabitants, yet they remain manageable and far less aggressive than many similarly sized Central American cichlids.

A tank of at least 30 gallons is suitable for a pair or small group. Natural hardscape such as river stones, driftwood, clay caves, and dense rootwork creates territory boundaries and mirrors the structure of their native streams. Sand or fine gravel allows for natural digging and display behaviors. Moderate flow and high oxygenation help replicate the character of Central American river habitats and keep them active and healthy.

Water parameters should reflect the warm, mineral-rich waters of their native range. Ideal conditions include temperatures of 75 to 82°F, a pH between 7.0 and 8.0, and moderately hard to hard water. Clean, well-maintained aquariums with steady parameters support strong coloration, stable behavior, and reliable feeding. Like most Central American cichlids, they handle higher mineral content well and do not require soft water.

Feeding the Blue-Eye Cichlid is straightforward. In the wild they consume small invertebrates, insect larvae, algae films, microorganisms, and organic debris. In the aquarium they accept high-quality pellets, frozen foods such as bloodworms and brine shrimp, and vegetable-based items such as spirulina or blanched greens. A varied diet enhances coloration and promotes natural grazing behavior.

The Blue-Eye Cichlid is generally peaceful for a Central American species and coexists well with similarly sized community fish, livebearers, rainbowfish, peaceful catfish, and non-aggressive cichlids with different territorial zones. Breeding behavior brings temporary territoriality, but aggression remains modest compared to larger, more dominant species from the region.

Breeding Cryptoheros spilurus is readily achievable. They form monogamous pairs and typically spawn on flat stones, wood, or within caves. Both parents participate extensively in guarding eggs and fry, displaying classic, attentive Central American cichlid parenting. Fry grow quickly on baby brine shrimp and finely crushed foods.

Cryptoheros spilurus, the Blue-Eye Cichlid, is a hardy, colorful, and personable species that thrives in structured freshwater aquariums, offering lively behavior, attractive coloration, and rewarding breeding interactions while remaining more peaceful and manageable than many other Central American cichlids.