Cichlasoma (Nandopsis) dovii "Wolf cichlid"  

The correct scientific name for this remarkable fish is Nandopsis dovii however most hobbyists still refer to it as Cichlasoma dovii or "Wolf cichlid". It (along with the closely related Parachromis (Nandopsis) managuensis - the "Jaguar cichlid") belongs to the Guapotes or large predatory cichlids of Central America. Its sheer final size (70 cm) and its aggression towards conspecifics and other species makes a large tank (over 2 meters long, at least 700 liter capacity) a must. Housing two males together (even in such a tank) is not recommended. The tank should be aquascaped in the usual "central America" way (rocks, sand and wood) and a pH slightly alkaline is desired (7.2-7.5). It is a mid water fish and requires calm water conditions (in nature it is found in large rivers). Will readily accept feeder fish (not recommended) and large fish meals. Feeding it with the regular size pellets is not recommended. The fish is very intelligent although its aggression may be manifested any time (may even bit your hand). The old joke about a cat looking at a tank with a pair of N.dovii while all three were wondering the same thing : "How does it taste", says it all.

Photo by Juan Miguel Artigas Azas (http://www.cichlidae.info) used here with his permission