Wolf Cichlid
Parachromis dovii
Wolf Cichlid (Parachromis dovii) — Advanced care, Aggressive, under Cichlid. Minimum tank in the app: 264 US gal min; aim for 75–86°F and pH 7–8. Details below match the app.
Captive lifespan reflects typical experience in a home aquarium, not maximum recorded age; genetics, sourcing, and care vary.
Natural distribution
Central America
- Central America & Mexico
Regional colours match the stocking calculator’s origin map.
Wolf Cichlid Tank Setup
Plan for at least 264 US gal min of water—that is the minimum in our database for a workable setup, not a challenge to crowd fish. Aim to hold 75–86°F and pH 7–8 without daily drama. These fish use the Mid/Bottom zone most, so put wood, plants, or open water there accordingly.
What Do Wolf Cichlids Eat?
We record diet as Carnivore (live foods). Offer a few food types that match—dry, frozen, or gel—and swap now and then. One flake every day for a year is how dull color and gut trouble creep in.
Wolf Cichlid Tank Mates
Temperament in the data: Aggressive. Flagged as a fin nipper, so long flowing fins and slow targets are a poor match. Treat small tank mates as potential snacks once the fish grows. One of the most aggressive cichlids. Predatory apex predator; will eat anything that fits in its mouth. Keep alone or with mate only. Plug your full stock list into the stocking calculator—single-species compatibility scores are hints, not a whole-tank verdict.
Are Wolf Cichlids Good for Beginners?
Not where we would send a brand-new keeper. Get a few wins under your belt with hardier fish first.
Building a community? Run the full list through the stocking calculator before you add anything else.
Similar fish to consider
Log tests and reminders in App-aquatic—free, same data you see here.