Blackthroat cichlid
📖 Overview
Blackthroat cichlid (Astatheros macracanthus), first described by Günther, 1864 is a medium-sized fish in the family Cichlidae (order Cichliformes). Adults typically reach 25.00 cm in maximum length. It inhabits freshwater systems including rivers, streams, and lakes. It occurs in Tropical waters. It feeds on a mix of small fish and invertebrates as a mid-level predator. On the IUCN Red List, it is classified as Least Concern.The species is important as a food fish, kept in the aquarium hobby, and considered a sustainable seafood option under current management. As a member of the Cichlidae, it shares life-history and morphological traits with its relatives in the group.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Physical description for Blackthroat cichlid is currently being compiled.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Blackthroat cichlid is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Freshwater; benthopelagic; pH range: 7.5 - ? ; dH range: 2 - 10. Tropical; 26°C - 30°C Central America: Pacific slope from southern Mexico to El Salvador.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Blackthroat cichlid is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Detailed nutritional data for Blackthroat cichlid is currently being compiled from USDA FoodData Central.
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Blackthroat cichlid has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔬 Full Nutritional Profile
Per 100g - Raw, per 100g - Source: USDA FoodData Central templates (generic fish average)
📊 Population Dynamics
| Year | Region | Index | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - |
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
| Language | Common Names |
|---|---|
| 🇬🇧English | Blackthroat Cichlid |
| 🇫🇮Finnish | takaraitakirjoahven |
| 🇪🇸Spanish | Mojarra de Guamuchal |
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amphilophus macracanthus | Günther | 1864 | Synonym |
| Cichlasoma evermanni | Meek | 1904 | Synonym |
| Cichlasoma guija | Hildebrand | 1934 | Synonym |
| Cichlasoma macracanthum | Günther | 1864 | Synonym |
| Cichlasoma meeki | Brind | 1918 | Synonym |
| Herichthys guija | Hildebrand | 1934 | Synonym |
| Heros heterodontus | Vaillant & Pellegrin | 1902 | Synonym |
| Heros macracanthus | Günther | 1864 | Synonym |
🦠 Common Diseases
The following diseases are known to affect Blackthroat cichlid.
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 24 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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