How Do I Tell If My Texas Cichlid is a Male or a Female?

If you plan to breed Texas cichlids, (Herichthys cyanoguttatus), or are just wondering what to name your fish, you probably want to know whether you have a male or female. It is hard to be 100 percent certain before spawning, but there are a few characteristics that provide a good idea of your fish's gender. An experienced breeder or aquarium supply store ought to be able to tell you the gender when you acquire your fish, but for confirmation, examine your fish closely once it has matured.

Things You'll Need

  • Guide to cichlids
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Instructions

    • 1

      Compare the sizes of the fish, if there are more than one. Females are usually a little smaller than the males. A fish 12 inches or longer is likely to be a male.

    • 2

      Examine the colors of the fish. Males have brighter, more vivid colors than females. Comparing your fish to images of typical male and female Texas cichlids in a guidebook or online can be helpful.

    • 3

      Examine the fish's head. Mature males often develop a distinctive bump on their foreheads, which is rarely seen on females.

    • 4

      Examine the fins. Males tend to have longer fins than females.