The term “Red Terror Fish” usually refers to a Red Terror Cichlid, a nickname for the Cichlasoma festae (more accurately now Andinoacara festae or Amphilophus festae, depending on classification). It’s a species of aggressive freshwater fish native to rivers in Ecuador and northern Peru.
 
 
Key Facts about the Red Terror Fish:
 
 
Scientific Name: Amphilophus festae (sometimes also Cichlasoma or Andinoacara festae)
Common Names: Red Terror Cichlid, Festae Cichlid
Origin: South America – especially coastal river systems of Ecuador and Peru
Size:
Males: up to 18 inches (45 cm)
Females: generally smaller, around 12 inches (30 cm)
 
Lifespan: 10–15 years with proper care
Color:
Females are typically more vividly colored with striking red and black barring.
Males are larger and may have more orange or gold tones with less pronounced bars.
 
 
 
 
Behaviour:
 
 
Aggressive and Territorial: True to the name “Red Terror”, these cichlids are extremely aggressive, especially during breeding.
Tank Requirements:
A large aquarium (minimum 100 gallons for a single adult)
Heavy filtration
Well-structured territory with rocks and hiding spots
Often best kept alone or with similarly aggressive species
 
 
 
 
Diet:
 
 
Omnivorous: Will eat pellets, live food (like worms), frozen food, and vegetables.