Description
🐟 Balloon Green Texas Cichlid
📌 Basic Info
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Scientific Name: Herichthys carpintis (Balloon variant)
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Family: Cichlidae
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Origin: Captive-bred (from Mexico/USA strain)
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Size: 6 – 8 inches (15 – 20 cm)
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Lifespan: 8 – 10 years
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Tank Zone: Mid to Bottom
🌊 Water Parameters
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TDS: 150 – 250 ppm
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pH: 6.5 – 8.0
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Temperature: 24 – 28°C (75 – 82°F)
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Hardness: 8 – 15 dGH
🐟 Characteristics
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Balloon body shape with shorter, rounder appearance than normal Texas cichlid.
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Covered with beautiful green/blue metallic spots.
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Males may develop a small nuchal hump.
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Aggressive and territorial, especially when breeding.
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Hardy and active, but balloon shape makes them less strong swimmers.
🍽️ Food
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Type: Omnivorous
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Diet: High-quality cichlid pellets, bloodworms, krill, shrimp, earthworms, spirulina-based flakes.
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Feeding: 2 times daily, small portions.
🛠️ Maintenance
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Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons (larger for pairs).
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Filtration: Strong – messy eater.
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Decor: Rocks, caves, and driftwood for territory; leave open space for swimming.
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Water Change: 30–40% weekly.
👥 Social Behavior
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Minimum Group Size: Best alone or as a pair.
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Tank Mates: Large, robust fish like Plecos, Silver Dollars, Oscars, Jack Dempsey.
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Avoid: Small community fish (guppies, tetras) – they will be eaten.
✅ Do’s
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Provide hiding spots with rocks and caves.
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Keep in a spacious tank.
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Maintain stable water quality.
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Use a sandy or smooth substrate (prevents injury).
❌ Don’ts
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Don’t keep with small or delicate fish.
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Don’t overcrowd – leads to aggression.
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Don’t skip water changes.
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Don’t put in small tanks.
⭐ Quick Tips
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Balloon Green Texas Cichlids are unique, short-bodied versions of Texas cichlids.
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They are colorful, hardy, and aggressive, making them great centerpiece fish for large aquariums.
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Best for experienced fish keepers who can manage their temperament.
