The Flag Cichlid (Mesonauta festivus) is a fish native to river basins in Brazil, Peru, Paraguay, and Bolivia. It can grow up to 4.8 inches long and is sometimes kept in aquariums.
Until 1991, Flag Cichlid was thought to be the only species in its genus, but further study revealed six total species. Because of this, many aquarium Flag Cichlids are mislabeled as M. festivus instead of their true species, like M. guyanae, M. insignis, or M. mirificus.
Flag Cichlids have a more southern range compared to other species in their genus. They’ve been found near sandy shores with vegetation and muddy bottoms or shallow waters with lots of plants.
In one instance, they were found in a clear pool without vegetation; at another time, they were discovered in a small stream near a cattle pool.
Flag Cichlid Interesting Facts
- Flag Cichlid is native to Brazil, Peru, Paraguay, and Bolivia and can grow up to 4.8 inches long.
- Until 1991, it was thought to be the only species in its genus. Now, there are six recognized species.
- These fish prefer habitats with vegetation or shallow waters with plants but have been found in clear pools without vegetation as well.
- Ideal water conditions for Flag Cichlids include a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0 and a hardness (dH) range of 4 to 6 at temperatures between 77°F and 93°F.
Flag Cichlid Habitat
The Flag Cichlid is a fish native to South America, specifically the Paraná River basin and Amazon River basin. It’s found in Brazil, Paraguay, Bolivia, and Peru.
This fish lives in freshwater environments near the bottom of rivers and doesn’t migrate.
The ideal water conditions for Flag Cichlid are a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0 and a hardness (dH) range of 4 to 6. The preferred water temperature is between 77°F to 93°F (25°C to 34°C). It thrives in tropical climates.
| Water Temperature: | 77°F to 93°F (25°C to 34°C) |
| Water pH: | 6.0 to 8.0 pH |
| Water Hardness: | 4 to 6 dH |
Flag Cichlid Physical Characteristics
Size: 4.8 inches (12.1 centimeters)
Flag Cichlid grows up to 4.8 in (12.1 cm) in length. The maximum recorded weight for this species is about 3.4 ounces (97.41 grams).
Flag Cichlid Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Cichliformes |
| Family: | Cichlidae |
| Genus: | Mesonauta |
| Scientific Name: | Mesonauta festivus |
| Also Known As: | Flag Cichlid |
| Conservation Status: | Unknown |