Red devil
(Amphilophus labiatus)
Image source: Tse Chung Yi | inaturalist.org
General data
Amphilophus labiatus is a large cichlid fish endemic to Lake Managua and Lake Nicaragua in Central America. It is also known by the common name red devil cichlid, which it shares with another closely related cichlid, A. citrinellus.
Colouration in wild specimens is variable and while most specimens are grey to greyish green some pink, red or white specimens do occur. Black pigmentation in spots or bands is also common. Some specimens have enlarged lips, though this condition is thought to be related to specific food choice preferences in their natural habitat as this trait disappears in captivity.
Like most cichlids, A. labiatus has advanced brood care. The species form monogamous pairs which spawn on flattened rocks or logs.
Invasive species
In Indonesia, this species was introduced as ornamental aquarium fish. This fish became a big problem in Lake Toba, threatening other species there. However, it was released to the wild and has become an invasive species, especially in the lakes of Java, Sulawesi and Papua.
