Festivum Flag Cichlid
The Festivum Flag Cichlid boasts an angular oval body shape, compressed laterally with pointed anal and dorsal fins. In captivity, these fish can grow to a length of 8 inches (20 cm), while in the wild, they typically reach around 6 inches (15 cm). With a lifespan of 7 to 10 years, they make a long-term addition to any aquarium.
What sets the Festivum Flag Cichlid apart is its distinctive black band running from the mouth, through the eye at an upward angle, to the top of the dorsal fin's back. This black strip is a defining feature across the various color varieties and patterning observed in this species. For instance, some variants exhibit yellow coloring above the black line and white or silver below, while others may showcase brown on top and white or silver on the bottom, with light yellow and brown striped fins. Additionally, certain varieties display seven irregular brown vertical bars that extend the length of the body, culminating in an "8th" bar resembling a spot on the caudal fin.
 
Species: Mesonauta festivus
Common Name: Flag Cichlid
Origin: South America; Amazon basin near Iquitos, northern Peru
Diet: Omnivore
pH Range: 6 - 7
Temperature: Tropical, 24–28°C
Breed Type: Egg layer
Maximum Size: Grows to approximately 20 cm
Sex: Unsexed