Moga

The Nicaragua cichlid or moga (Hypsophrys nicaraguensis) is a large, attractive Central American cichlid endemic to Nicaragua and Costa Rica, where it inhabits lakes and slow-moving rivers. It is also known locally as the spilotum and has been the subject of taxonomic confusion, having previously been placed in the genera Cichlasoma, Copora, Theraps, and even Heros before its current classification was established. This species exists in several colour forms depending on collection locality and has been hybridised with the convict cichlid (Archocentrus nigrofasciatus), though this practice is not encouraged.

Males reach up to 25 cm (10 in) in length while females are smaller at around 20 cm (8 in), with males developing a small nuchal hump as they mature. Females retain a striking black lateral stripe throughout life, whereas this fades to a single spot on the flank of males. The body is typically golden-yellow with iridescent blue scaling on the flanks. A single adult or pair requires an aquarium with base dimensions of at least 120 × 45 × 45 cm (243 L / 64 gal). The tank should provide plenty of cover via rocks, bogwood, and flowerpots arranged to form caves, with a sand or fine gravel substrate to accommodate their digging behaviour.

Despite its size, this species is relatively peaceful for a Central American cichlid, though it becomes noticeably territorial during breeding. It can be maintained as a mated pair and will form long-term pair bonds. The diet should be varied, including quality dried pellets and flakes alongside frozen foods such as bloodworm and prawn, live earthworm treats, and green vegetables such as blanched spinach or spirulina-based foods. Water temperature should be 23–28°C, pH 7.0–8.0—it will not do well in acidic conditions—with moderately hard water of 8–20°H. Suitable tankmates include larger barbs, characins, catfish, and Loricariids.