Basket Mouth Cichlid (Caquetaia spectabilis)

Caquetaia spectabilis, commonly known as the Basket Mouth Cichlid, is a fascinating South American cichlid native to the Amazon and Orinoco river basins. It gets its name from its remarkably large, highly protrusible mouth, capable of engulfing prey in a lightning-fast strike. A bold and predatory fish, it is best kept with similarly sized tankmates, as smaller fish will be viewed as food. It appreciates a spacious tank with driftwood and open swimming areas. Not a fussy eater — it readily accepts pellets, frozen foods, and live prey. Water Conditions: pH 6.0 - 7.5 | 4 - 12 KH | 76 - 84°F Breeding: Substrate spawner; both parents guard the eggs and fry.