RIVER FISH · Warm southern water
Rio Grande cichlid
Herichthys cyanoguttatus
A blue-speckled warmwater cichlid native to the lower Rio Grande drainage and notable as the only cichlid native to the United States.
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Meet the fish
- Habitat
- Warm rivers, creeks, canals and other freshwater habitat, often around cover and slower water.
- On the menu
- An adaptable diet including insects, crustaceans, plant material and small aquatic animals; adults can also take fish eggs.
- Size context
- Texas Parks and Wildlife notes adults can exceed 10 inches, with local growth depending on habitat and food.
- Range & local context
- Native to the lower Rio Grande drainage in Texas and northeastern Mexico, with introduced populations elsewhere.
Living with the river
Water & habitat
This is a warmwater fish sensitive to prolonged cold. Local habitat, temperature and cover matter more than a single flow reading.
Seasonal life
Spawning begins as water warms; pairs defend nesting areas and both parents guard young.
Why this song? The Rio Grande cichlid is native to the lower Rio Grande, so “Rio” gets the nod.
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Before you go
Native status changes outside the lower Rio Grande drainage. Check local regulations and invasive-species guidance before moving or releasing fish.
Use the linked agencies and the relevant river guide for current regulations, closures and consumption advisories. A species profile is not a fishing license or a statement that harvest is allowed.
Editorial review: . Regional size examples are labeled; maximum lengths are not typical sizes.
More river fish
Keep exploring species connected to the same river-guide network.