Theraps microphthalmus

(Günther, 1862)

Vernacular names
English : Small-eyed checkmark cichlid
French : Microphthalmus

Classification
Class : Teleostei
Order : Cichliformes (sometimes still Perciformes)
Family : Cichlidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
Maximum length is 25 cm. Laterally-compressed barrel-shaped body with round forehead. Coloration is olive to beige. Large black area from gill covert to dorsal fin. Rest of body beige and reddish with bright turquoise spots on each scale.

Range and habitat
The species is endemic to Central America and only occurs in the Motagua river basin in Guatemala and Honduras. Mostly found in fast-flowing cool-watered rivers on mountain slopes.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : DATA DEFICIENT
CITES : Not Listed
Status : The species has a fairly small range and could be threatened both by habitat destruction and collection for the trade.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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