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Red-tailed Crown Fish Ecological Habits and Breeding
Aequidens rivulatus, commonly known as the Green Terror, is a medium-sized cichlid native to the freshwater regions of Ecuador and the western and central parts of Peru. This vibrant and powerful fish is highly favored by aquarium enthusiasts due to its striking colors, especially after reaching sexual maturity, when males display more vivid hues. Its ease of breeding and adaptability make it a popular choice for home aquarists.
**Ecological Habits**
1. **Morphological Characteristics**
The male Aequidens rivulatus can grow up to 20 cm in length, while females are generally smaller. It has a long dorsal fin that extends from the back of the gill cover to the front of the caudal peduncle. In sexually mature individuals, the dorsal and caudal fins often turn golden or red, while the lower part of the gill cover features bright green stripes, giving it the name "Green Terror."
2. **Life Habits**
This species is known for being aggressive, especially as adults. Juveniles primarily feed on zooplankton, but they become predators once they grow larger, consuming small fish and shrimp. Before reaching maturity, they can coexist peacefully with others, but after maturing, they become territorial and form strong pair bonds. They prefer water with a pH between 6.5 and 8.0, hardness of 6–15 dGH, and a temperature range of 21–25°C. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 17°C, though their activity decreases. While they are carnivorous, they can be trained to eat high-protein pellets. However, they require well-oxygenated water and are sensitive to heavy metals like mercury. Therefore, treatments involving mercurous nitrate should be avoided for juvenile fish suffering from certain diseases.
3. **Breeding Habits**
Like many cichlids, Aequidens rivulatus forms monogamous pairs and exhibits strong parental care. They lay eggs on smooth stones or glass surfaces in the aquarium. Males become more colorful before spawning, and both parents guard the eggs fiercely. If paired incorrectly, females may be injured by males. Proper identification of males and females can be based on physical differences such as body shape, fin size, and genitalia.
**Artificial Propagation Methods**
1. **Pairing Broodstock**
Red-tailed crown fish naturally pair during the breeding season. Keeping more than 10 juveniles in the same tank allows them to mature sexually within 8–12 months. Live food, such as small fish and shrimp, helps speed up sexual maturity. Once paired, they become very territorial and will aggressively defend their space. If not removed, they may harm other fish. Broodstock should be fed live prey for a month before spawning to ensure optimal health.
2. **Spawning Tank Setup and Water Quality Control**
A spawning tank measuring approximately 0.8m x 0.5m x 0.4m is suitable. Smooth stones or glass can be placed inside for egg-laying. Water conditions during this period are similar to regular feeding, but adding one-third fresh water and maintaining a temperature of 25–27°C is recommended.
3. **Spawning and Hatching**
After adapting to the new environment, the pair usually lays eggs within 1–3 days. They clean the area and deposit 500–1,500 pale yellow eggs. Parents protect the eggs fiercely, and even minor disturbances can provoke attacks. Fertilized eggs hatch within 1–2 days, and larvae begin swimming after another day. Although parents take care of the fry, they are often removed to allow independent hatching.
**Rearing Juvenile Fish**
1. **Larval Rearing**
Newly hatched larvae measure about 0.7 cm. They can be fed rotifers or Artemia nauplii initially. After 2–3 days, they transition to sifted food, and by day 10, they can be fed live worms.
2. **Juvenile Cultivation**
Juveniles are active and feed aggressively. A diet rich in insects promotes uniform growth, although growth slows below 3 cm. At 3–4 cm, they can start eating dry food. The feeding process involves mixing live food with dry feed gradually over several days.
**Feeding and Transport of Adult Fish**
Adults have similar dietary needs to juveniles but require more space. Feeding them live prey like small fish and shrimp enhances color and growth. Females grow slower than males at the sub-adult stage. During transport, adult fish are prone to eye injuries, so water temperature should be kept below 23°C. Overcrowding must be avoided—only 20 fish under 13 cm per 70 cm double nylon bag for short trips. If blindness occurs, treatment with oxytetracycline or potassium permanganate can help restore vision.