The Green Terror is a colorful freshwater fish in the cichlid family. It comes from the Pacific side of South America, specifically between the Tumbes River in Peru and the Esmeraldas River in Ecuador.
This fish can have different appearances, with white or gold-orange edges on its tail and dorsal fins.
In the past, people confused Green Terror with two other species that always have thin, clear white edges: A. stalsbergi (often called the “true” Green Terror) found further south, and A. blombergi found further north.
Green Terrors live in small and large coastal streams. Female Green Terrors take care of eggs and baby fish, while males protect their home area.
Green Terror Interesting Facts
- Green Terror Cichlid (Andinoacara rivulatus) comes from South America, specifically between the Tumbes River in Peru and the Esmeraldas River in Ecuador.
- These cichlids were once confused with two other species: A. stalsbergi and A. blombergi, due to similarities in appearance.
- Ideal living conditions for Green Terrors include a pH range of 6.5 to 8.0, water hardness up to 25 dH, and temperatures between 68°F to 75°F.
- This species can lay up to 600 eggs; females care for the eggs and babies while males protect their territory.
Green Terror Habitat
The Green Terror lives in South America, specifically from the Esmeraldas River in Ecuador to the Tumbes River in Peru.
This fish prefers freshwater environments and swims close to the bottom (benthopelagic).
It can adapt to a pH range of 6.5 to 8.0 and water hardness up to 25 dH. The ideal temperature for this tropical fish is between 68°F to 75°F (20°C to 24°C). Its habitat lies around 1°S to 2°S latitude.
| Water Temperature: | 68°F to 75°F (20°C to 24°C) |
| Water pH: | 6.5 to 8.0 pH |
| Water Hardness: | Up to 25 dH |
Green Terror Physical Characteristics
Size: 7.9 inches (20.0 centimeters)
This fish can reach a maximum length of 7.9 in (total length) in males.
Green Terror Reproduction
The Green Terror can lay up to 600 eggs on solid surfaces. The female looks after the eggs and baby fish, while the male protects their area.
Green Terror Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Cichliformes |
| Family: | Cichlidae |
| Genus: | Andinoacara |
| Scientific Name: | Andinoacara rivulatus |
| Also Known As: | Green Terror |
| Conservation Status: | Unknown |