How to Identify Texas Cichlid

To identify Texas Cichlid (Herichthys cyanoguttatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Base color ranges from grey to olive-brown, adorned with numerous iridescent blue-green spots that cover the body, head, and fins. A prominent dark spot or series of spots may be present mid-laterally. Breeding males often display more intense coloration and a nuchal hump.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Iridescent blue-green spots covering the entire body and fins., Robust, oval-shaped body., Large, protractile mouth with conical teeth., Often develops a nuchal hump (fatty lump on the forehead) in mature males, especially during breeding., Dark lateral spot(s) often present.

Dorsal fin

Long, continuous dorsal fin with 15-17 spines and 10-12 soft rays. The spiny portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Rounded to truncate caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Well-developed, fan-shaped pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 5-6 spines and 8-10 soft rays. Pelvic fins are thoracic.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration and Pattern

   Look for the distinctive iridescent blue-green spots on a grey to olive-brown body. This pattern is unique among native North American freshwater fish.

2. 2

   Body Shape

   Robust, oval, and laterally compressed body typical of cichlids.

3. 3

   Mouth

   Relatively large, protractile mouth with thick lips.

4. 4

   Dorsal Fin

   A single, long dorsal fin with a prominent spiny anterior portion.

5. 5

   Geographic Location

   If found in the lower Rio Grande basin, it is highly likely to be a Texas Cichlid, as it is the only native cichlid in the US.

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