Green Terror Cichlid Care Guide – Vibrant Beauty with an Aggressive Edge
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Introduction: The Name Says It All
The Green Terror Cichlid (Andinoacara rivulatus) lives up to its name—not just in temperament but in stunning appearance. With shimmering metallic green and blue scales, bold facial patterns, and an assertive personality, this South American cichlid is both a showpiece and a challenge.
For aquarists who love color, intelligence, and attitude, the Green Terror is a rewarding species that commands attention.
🔍 Species Overview
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Andinoacara rivulatus |
| Common Name | Green Terror Cichlid |
| Adult Size | 6–8 inches (females), up to 12” (males) |
| Lifespan | 8–10 years |
| Temperament | Aggressive, territorial |
| Origin | Ecuador and northern Peru |
| Tank Level | Mid to bottom |
| Skill Level | Intermediate to Advanced |
🏠 Tank Requirements
🧱 Tank Size
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Single specimen: 55 gallons minimum
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Mated pair: 75+ gallons
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Community setup (with large tankmates): 125+ gallons
These cichlids are highly territorial. A larger tank reduces aggression and gives tankmates space to avoid conflict.
🪨 Aquascape
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Use sand or fine gravel substrate
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Provide plenty of rocks, caves, and driftwood for territorial boundaries
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Add hardy rooted plants or floating plants (they may uproot soft species)
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Ensure open swimming space in the center
The Green Terror enjoys having established “zones” to patrol and defend.
🌊 Filtration & Flow
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Strong filtration (canister or sump recommended)
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Moderate water flow
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Weekly 30–40% water changes to keep nitrates low
They’re messy eaters, so keep an eye on biofilm and debris buildup.
💧 Water Parameters
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 75–82°F |
| pH | 6.5–7.5 |
| Hardness | 4–12 dGH |
| Ammonia/Nitrite | 0 ppm |
| Nitrate | < 25 ppm |
Stable parameters and low nitrate levels are key to long-term health and optimal coloration.
🍽️ Diet & Feeding
Green Terrors are omnivorous with a preference for protein-rich foods.
✅ Best Foods:
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High-quality cichlid pellets (e.g., Northfin, Hikari)
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Frozen krill, bloodworms, brine shrimp
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Earthworms, chopped shrimp
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Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach) as supplements
🕒 Feed once or twice daily. Rotate protein and plant-based meals to support digestion and immune health.
Avoid overfeeding—these cichlids can develop fatty liver and bloat when given too much rich food.
🧠 Behavior & Temperament
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Extremely territorial, especially during breeding
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Intelligent and observant—recognizes the keeper
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Can coexist with large, assertive tank mates if raised together
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Aggression intensifies as they mature
Males develop a noticeable nuchal hump (knot on the forehead) and can become especially dominant.
👫 Tank Mates
Choose tank mates cautiously. Compatibility depends on tank size, fish size, and individual personalities.
✅ Compatible Tank Mates:
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Silver Dollars
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Large Barbs
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Bichirs
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Catfish (like Raphael or larger Plecos)
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Oscars (in big enough tanks)
❌ Avoid:
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Small fish (they’ll be attacked or eaten)
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Passive species (will be bullied)
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Multiple male cichlids in small tanks
Tankmate success hinges on space and similar aggression levels.
🧬 Growth, Health & Breeding
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Max size: 8–12 inches
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Lifespan: 8–10 years
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Sexually mature by 4–6 inches
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Males are larger with brighter coloration and pronounced humps
Breeding Behavior:
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Mated pairs form strong bonds but become highly aggressive
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Use a flat slate or rock surface for egg laying
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Fry hatch within 3–4 days and are free-swimming in 7–10
Parents will aggressively protect their young, even attacking much larger tankmates.
🌟 Educational Insight: Green Terror vs. Blue Acara
The Green Terror is often confused with its more peaceful cousin, the Electric Blue Acara (Andinoacara pulcher). Here’s how they differ:
| Trait | Green Terror | Electric Blue Acara |
|---|---|---|
| Max Size | 8–12 inches | 4–6 inches |
| Temperament | Aggressive | Peaceful |
| Coloration | Green/blue with orange trim | Neon blue with no orange |
| Difficulty | Intermediate/Advanced | Beginner-friendly |
Green Terrors are more aggressive, larger, and far more territorial, making them a better fit for experienced cichlid keepers.
💲 Why Buy from RobsAquatics.com?
Our Green Terrors are:
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Quarantined, parasite-free, and eating prepared foods
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Hand-selected for vibrant coloration
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Available in multiple sizes, including juveniles and near-breeding pairs
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Shipped with a Live Arrival Guarantee
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Backed by expert care from real hobbyists
We prioritize healthy, high-quality stock that thrives in well-managed aquariums.
🧠 Final Thoughts
The Green Terror Cichlid is a bold, beautiful centerpiece for any serious freshwater setup. With its powerful coloration, intelligent behavior, and dominating presence, it offers a true “wet pet” experience—for those ready to manage its personality.
Best for:
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Experienced cichlid keepers
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Species-only or predator community tanks
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Display aquariums with space for boundaries
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Hobbyists seeking an interactive show fish
👉 Order your Green Terror Cichlid now from RobsAquatics.com and bring power, personality, and color to your aquarium.