Behaviour
How it lives.
These cichlids are known for their aggressive and territorial nature, especially during breeding. They can be kept with other large and robust fish species in a spacious tank with plenty of hiding spots.
All fish
American Cichlid / Aquarium Zone · Ballina
Texas.
Herichthys cyanoguttatus
Aggressive, and best with robust tankmates of a similar size. Grows to about 30 cm and suits a tank of 75 litres or more.
The fish, up close
More than a beautiful fish.
The Texas cichlid, also known as Rio Grande cichlid, is a vibrant and territorial freshwater fish native to the rivers and lakes of Texas and northern Mexico. It is popular among aquarists for its striking colours and interesting behaviour.
Care guide
Build a better match.
Use these notes to shape a setup around the fish, then speak with our team about the tank you have in mind.
Plan your setupTank planning
Set it up well.
Maintain the water temperature between 24-28°C and pH level around 7.0-8.0. Provide a well-filtered tank with regular water changes to keep the water quality high.
Practical details
Plan the space and routine.
- Origin
- Native to the rivers and lakes of Texas and northern Mexico.
- Max Size
- 30 cm
- Diet
- Texas cichlids are omnivores and should be fed a varied diet including high-quality cichlid pellets, live or frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp, and some vegetable matter.
- Tank Recommendation
- A minimum tank size of 75 litres is recommended for a single Texas cichlid, with larger tanks needed for multiple fish or if keeping with tank mates.
Questions
Plan before you bring one home.
For a specific fish, current stock or a tank setup question, speak with the Aquarium Zone team before travelling.
Contact the storeIs Texas available at Aquarium Zone in Ballina?
Aquarium Zone regularly helps customers find freshwater fish in Ballina and across the Northern Rivers. Stock changes week to week, so contact the store before visiting if you are looking for Texas.
Can Aquarium Zone help me decide if Texas suits my aquarium?
Yes. Bring your tank size, current fish list, setup photos, and any water test results so the team can help with compatibility, stocking, and care advice.
What tank size does Texas need?
Texas is listed with this tank recommendation: A minimum tank size of 75 litres is recommended for a single Texas cichlid, with larger tanks needed for multiple fish or if keeping with tank mates. Ask in-store for advice based on your exact setup and tank mates.
Do you serve customers outside Ballina?
Yes. Aquarium Zone serves aquarium hobbyists from Ballina, Lennox Head, Alstonville, Wollongbar, Bangalow, Byron Bay, Lismore, Evans Head, Mullumbimby, Casino and the wider Northern Rivers.
Aquarium Zone / Ballina
Choose with confidence.
Looking for Texas? Contact us to confirm current availability and discuss whether it suits your aquarium before making the trip.
18 Southern Cross DriveBallina NSW 2478
(02) 6686 0002