Appearance

A broken lateral line and turquoise ring on the tail are diagnostic; general coloration includes 6-8 bars that can be faint or dark; body color varies greatly in intensity, sometimes with bright red on the chin, throat, and breast; has both spiny and soft dorsal fins; and has a rounded caudal fin.

Range:

First recorded in Florida Bay in 1983, now established and abundant in south Florida, as far north as Lake Okeechobee and the St. Lucie Canal. Native to the Atlantic slopes of Central and South America.

Habitat

Very adaptable and lives well in variety of habitats including canals, rivers, lakes and marshes; tolerates wide range of salinities.

Behavior

Spawning Habitats: Nest building primarily occurs in April, followed by peak spawn in May and June; both parents guard young for up to six weeks; generally spawn once per year.

Feeding Habits: Consumes grass shrimp, night crawler worms, red wiggler worms, small fish, snails, and insects, along with some incidental detritus and vegetative matter.

Age and Growth:

Largest measured by Commission scientists was 12.6 inches and weighed 2.37 pounds, but may reach larger sizes as the IGFA world record is listed at 15 inches and 2.5 pounds; maximum reported age is 7 years.

Sporting Quality:

Sometimes referred to as the “atomic sunfish;” takes variety of natural baits including live worms, grass shrimp, crickets, as well as almost any small artificial, particularly jigs, fished on light tackle; wooly worms, small streamers, and popping bugs used by flyfishers also taken aggressively.

Edibility:

Good; white, flaky meat with mild flavor; no bag or size limits.

Additional Information
The Mayan Cichlid is a perfect fish to bowfish for in Florida if you like to bowfish because these fish wreak havoc on the waters they live in. These fish have no size limit or bag limit.
Panfish hooks work perfectly for the Mayan Cichlid’s with a night crawler or a red wiggler worm. They will even eat stuff like slim jims and beef jerky.

5 Best Mayan Cichlid Recipes

Mayan cichlids are not only beautiful creatures to have in your aquarium, but they also make for a delicious meal for the adventurous foodie. Rich in flavor and versatility, these fish can be prepared in a variety of ways. Here are the five best recipes to bring out the unique taste of Mayan cichlid.

1. Grilled Mayan Cichlid with Garlic and Herbs

This recipe highlights the natural flavors of Mayan cichlid while adding a touch of freshness. Marinate the fillets in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs, like thyme and parsley, for about an hour. Grill over medium heat until the fish is flaky, about 5-7 minutes per side. Serve with a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

2. Mayan Cichlid Tacos

Turn your Mayan cichlid into mouthwatering tacos! Season the fish with chili powder, cumin, and lime juice and pan-fry in a hot skillet. Warm up some corn tortillas and fill them with the cooked fish. Add fresh toppings like shredded cabbage, avocado slices, and a drizzle of creamy chipotle sauce for a delightful dish that bursts with flavor.

3. Mayan Cichlid in Coconut Curry

If you enjoy spicy dishes, this coconut curry recipe is perfect for you. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger in a pot, then add red curry paste and coconut milk. Simmer the sauce for a few minutes before adding cubed Mayan cichlid fillets. Cook until the fish is tender, and serve over rice or quinoa, garnished with fresh basil or cilantro.

4. Baked Mayan Cichlid with Lemon Butter

This baked version is simple yet elegant. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the seasoned Mayan cichlid fillets in a baking dish. Pour melted butter mixed with lemon juice over the fish and sprinkle with paprika. Bake for about 20 minutes until cooked through. Serve with steamed vegetables for a healthy dinner option.

5. Spicy Mayan Cichlid Ceviche

For a refreshing appetizer, whip up a Mayan cichlid ceviche. Cut the fish into small cubes and marinate in lime juice for about an hour. Mix in diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro. Allow the flavors to meld together before serving with tortilla chips. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings!

These recipes showcase the versatility and deliciousness of Mayan cichlid. Whether you’re grilling, frying, or baking, each method brings out the best in this exquisite fish. Try them out and elevate your culinary adventures!