A massive, extremely aggressive Central American cichlid. Aptly named, the Red Devil is highly intelligent, interactive, and famous for 'glass-banging' at their owners. They are powerful diggers that will uproot plants and rearrange decor. Because of their sheer aggression and jaw strength, they are almost exclusively kept as 'wet pets' in solitary setups.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
Water Parameters
Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Adult Male (Standard)
Adult males grow significantly larger and often develop a pronounced nuchal hump on their head. They are fiercely territorial and usually require a 75-gallon (280L) minimum tank to themselves.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Male Red Devil, Adult, Bull
Adult Female
Females are slightly smaller and generally lack the massive nuchal hump of the males. Despite this, their temperament is still incredibly aggressive.
Differs in 3 traits from base species
Also known as: Female Red Devil
Juvenile (Grow-out)
Young Red Devils are usually sold around 2-3 inches. They may exhibit drabber, barred coloring before 'peeling' into their bright orange/red adult colors. They grow exceptionally fast and will require massive tank upgrades shortly.
Differs in 4 traits from base species
Also known as: Baby Red Devil, Juvenile
Red Devil Cichlid Care Guide Summary
The Red Devil Cichlid, scientifically known as Amphilophus labiatus, belongs to the Cichlids - Central American family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 35 cm and have a compressed body shape with a fast growth rate. Classified as highly aggressive, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a extreme level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Red Devil Cichlid requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 280 litres and a tank length of at least 120 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 24°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6.5–8 and a general hardness of 6–20 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Due to its specialist needs, the Red Devil Cichlid is best suited for fishkeepers who can provide a carefully planned setup. This species is available in 3 varieties: Adult Male (Standard), Adult Female, and Juvenile (Grow-out). Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Red Devil Cichlid Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Red Devil Cichlid, a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the mid-level and bottom zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include a sand substrate to accommodate their sifting behaviour, smooth gravel or rounded substrate to protect their sensitive barbels, and driftwood, which can serve as both a hiding place and a dietary supplement. Keepers should note that expect substrate disturbance, so lightweight décor should be secured and live planted layouts may be difficult to maintain, as this species tends to uproot or consume vegetation.
Red Devil Cichlid Compatibility Notes
Classified as highly aggressive, the Red Devil Cichlid is best housed alone, as they do not tolerate others of their kind in confined spaces. When choosing tankmates, any fish small enough to fit in its mouth will likely be eaten, conspecific aggression can be intense, especially in smaller tanks, territorial behaviour may cause issues if hiding spots or floor space are limited, and their energetic swimming style may stress more sedentary or timid species. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the mid-level and bottom zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Frequently Asked Questions About Red Devil Cichlid
How big does Red Devil Cichlid get?+
What tank size does Red Devil Cichlid need?+
What water parameters does Red Devil Cichlid need?+
Is Red Devil Cichlid peaceful or aggressive?+
Can Red Devil Cichlid live with others of its kind?+
Does Red Devil Cichlid have any special tank requirements?+
Similar Species
African Jewel Cichlid
Hemichromis bimaculatus
A strikingly beautiful but notoriously aggressive West African riverine cichlid. Unlike the alkaline-loving Rift Lake cichlids (e.g., Mbuna), Jewel Cichlids prefer neutral, softer water parameters. They are renowned for their brilliant red breeding dress and iridescent blue spots, but also for their extreme territoriality, especially when forming pairs and spawning. They are avid diggers and will uproot most plants.
Firemouth Cichlid
Thorichthys meeki
A popular Central American cichlid famous for the bright red coloration on its throat and belly, which it flares to intimidate rivals. They are earth-eaters, constantly sifting sand for food. While territorial, especially during breeding, they are relatively peaceful for a cichlid of their size compared to larger Central American counterparts.
Jack Dempsey
Rocio octofasciata
A robust, highly territorial Central American cichlid named after the aggressive 1920s boxer, William 'Jack' Dempsey. They exhibit beautiful iridescent blue, green, and gold spangling over a dark background. As aggressive diggers and plant destroyers, they require a tank with sturdy decor. They are best kept as a single wet pet or in a large tank with other similarly sized, robust Central American cichlids.
Flowerhorn Cichlid
Hybrid cichlid (Amphilophus cross)
A man-made hybrid cichlid famous for its vibrant colors, extreme interactive personality, and the large nuchal hump (kok) on its head. They are incredibly aggressive 'wet pets' that will attack hands, tank mates, and equipment. They have a massive bioload, dig constantly, and must almost always be kept completely alone.
Freshwater Angelfish
Pterophyllum scalare
The most iconic South American Cichlid, known for its distinct arrowhead shape and majestic fins. While domestic strains are hardy, they remain cichlids: they are semi-aggressive predators that will eat any fish small enough to fit in their mouths (like Neon Tetras). They form loose shoals as juveniles but pair off and become territorial as they mature. Height is more important than length for this species.
Jaguar Cichlid
Parachromis managuensis
A massive, apex predator from Central America known for its striking jaguar-like pattern and extreme aggression. Jaguars are highly intelligent, wet-pet fish but require enormous aquariums and heavy filtration. They will consume any fish that fits in their mouth and aggressively rearrange their environment.