Honduran Red Point (Amatitlania siquia)

honduran red point care guide

scientific name: Amatitlania siquia
common name: Honduran Red Point Cichlid

general overview

The Honduran Red Point (Amatitlania siquia) is a beautiful, underrated Central American cichlid closely related to the well-known convict cichlid (Amatitlania nigrofasciata), but with a far gentler temperament and more vibrant coloration.

Native to the rivers and streams of Honduras, this species shows a soft blue-green sheen across its body, accented by red and orange highlights on the fins and belly—especially vivid in breeding males. Their smaller size and calmer nature make them an excellent choice for aquarists seeking the look of a convict cichlid without the aggression.

aquarium setup & water parameters

Provide ample hiding places with caves or stacked stones — these fish are territorial during spawning but otherwise peaceful. They appreciate a natural layout with driftwood, river stones, and live plants.

temperament & compatibility

Unlike their convict cousins, Honduran Red Points are mild-mannered and social, especially outside of breeding. They can be kept in peaceful community setups with similarly sized, calm fish.

ideal tankmates:

• Swordtails and Platies

• Rainbowfish

• Corydoras catfish

• Peaceful Central American cichlids (like Cryptoheros cutteri)

• Plecos or other armored catfish

Avoid pairing with highly aggressive cichlids or very small fish like neon tetras, which may be seen as prey during spawning.

diet & feeding

These cichlids are omnivorous and thrive on a balanced diet of high-quality prepared foods and frozen or live supplements.

recommended foods:

• High-protein cichlid pellets or flakes

• Frozen or live brine shrimp, bloodworms, or daphnia

• Blanched vegetables (spinach, zucchini, peas)

• Occasional spirulina-based food for color enhancement

Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily, ensuring no uneaten food remains.

breeding information

Honduran Red Points are excellent parents and easy to breed in captivity. They form monogamous pairs and spawn readily when provided with caves or flat stones.

breeding conditions:

• Slightly warmer water around 27–28 °C (81–82 °F)

• Flat rocks or clay pots for spawning sites

• The female lays eggs, which both parents guard diligently

The fry are free-swimming after 5–7 days and can be fed baby brine shrimp or powdered fry food. Watching their parental care behavior is one of the highlights of keeping this species.

key facts summary