Green terror

Overview

The green terror (Andinoacara rivulatus) is a spectacular but demanding New-World cichlid — a male in full colour, with metallic green-blue scales and an orange-edged tail, is one of the most striking fish in the hobby. It is also genuinely aggressive and grows large, up to 25–30 cm. This is a fish for a keeper who wants a serious cichlid project and can supply a big tank, strong filtration and the willingness to keep it alone or with carefully chosen, robust company.

Tank & water

Plan for the adult from day one. A single green terror needs at least 300 litres (80 gallons), and a pair or tankmates much more. See our large-tank guide.

• Temperature: 20–25 °C — cooler than many tropicals — from a robust heater.
• Water: pH 6.5–8.0, adaptable but stable; test regularly with a kit.
• Powerful filtration: these are large, messy fish — heavily oversize the filter and keep nitrate down with big water changes.
• Aquascape: sand, robust rockwork and sight breaks so fish can avoid one another.

Feeding

Green terrors are carnivores. Feed a quality large-cichlid pellet as the staple, supplemented with frozen or fresh meaty foods such as prawns, mussel and earthworms. Avoid feeder fish, which risk disease, and don’t rely on mammalian meat. Heavy feeding means heavy waste, so match it with oversized filtration and frequent water changes.

Tankmates

Best kept alone or as a single, carefully matched pair. If you attempt tankmates, use large, fast, robust fish in a very big tank with abundant cover — similarly sized tough cichlids or large catfish. Avoid all small, slow or long-finned fish. Watch closely for overstocking and check the load with how many fish in an aquarium.

For a similar look with a far calmer temperament, consider the electric blue acara instead.