How to Identify Mayan Cichlid

To identify Mayan Cichlid (Mayaheros urophthalmus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Base color ranges from yellowish-tan to olive-brown, often with a metallic sheen. Typically displays 5-7 dark, irregular vertical bars on the flanks. A prominent, black, ocellated spot (ocellus) ringed with gold or blue is present on the caudal peduncle, near the base of the tail fin. Fins can have reddish or yellowish tints, especially during breeding. Males tend to be more intensely colored and may develop a nuchal hump.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Prominent ocellated spot on the caudal peduncle., 5-7 irregular dark vertical bars on the body., Robust, deep-bodied appearance., Thick, fleshy lips.

Dorsal fin

Long, continuous dorsal fin with 15-17 spines and 9-12 soft rays. The spiny portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Rounded to slightly truncate caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Well-developed, fan-shaped pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 6-8 spines and 7-9 soft rays. Pelvic fins are thoracic. All fins are generally robust.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Caudal Peduncle Spot

   Look for the distinctive black, ocellated spot (often with a golden or blue ring) on the base of the tail fin. This is a key identifying feature.

2. 2

   Body Bars

   Observe the 5-7 dark, irregular vertical bars along the flanks. These can vary in intensity but are usually present.

3. 3

   Lip Structure

   Note the relatively thick, fleshy lips, characteristic of many cichlid species that feed on benthic invertebrates.

4. 4

   Fin Spines

   Count the dorsal and anal fin spines (15-17 dorsal, 6-8 anal) if possible, though this requires careful handling.

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