How to Identify Red Devil Cichlid

To identify Red Devil Cichlid (Amphilophus labiatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Highly variable, ranging from grey, white, yellow, orange, to bright red. Often with irregular black blotches or vertical bars. Some individuals may have a 'piebald' pattern. The most striking feature is the often-enlarged, fleshy lips, which can be white, pink, or the same color as the body.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Prominent, fleshy lips (labial hypertrophy), which can be highly developed in some individuals., Robust, deep body., Large, powerful jaws with conical teeth., Nuchal hump (fatty lump on the forehead) can develop in mature males, especially during breeding., Ability to rapidly change color intensity and pattern.

Dorsal fin

Long and continuous, with 16-18 spines and 10-12 soft rays. The posterior part is often pointed.

Tail fin

Rounded to slightly truncate.

Pectoral fin

Relatively small and rounded.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin is similar in shape to the posterior part of the dorsal fin, with 6-8 spines and 7-9 soft rays. Pelvic fins are pointed.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Lips

   Look for the characteristic thick, fleshy lips. While not all individuals have extremely pronounced lips, it is a key identifying feature for the species.

2. 2

   Body Shape and Size

   A robust, deep-bodied cichlid that can reach up to 30-35 cm (12-14 inches) in length. Males are generally larger and may develop a nuchal hump.

3. 3

   Coloration

   Observe the wide range of colors (grey, white, yellow, orange, red) and the presence of black blotches or bars. Color can change rapidly with mood.

4. 4

   Aggression

   Their highly aggressive and territorial behavior is a strong indicator, especially when interacting with other fish.

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