Midas cichlid (Amphilophus citrinellus) is a freshwater species recorded in the United States.
Scientific name: Amphilophus citrinellus · Water: Freshwater
Size: up to 24.4 cm
The Midas cichlid is a benthopelagic cichlid. Adults live in box-cut canals with rocky vertical sides, using crevices for spawning and for the protection of the young; the species is found in lakes but is uncommon in rivers, penetrating the lower river valleys where the water is slow-flowing or tranquil. It is omnivorous, eating mostly aufwuchs, snails and small fishes as well as insect larvae, worms and other bottom-dwelling organisms. Most individuals have normal cryptic coloration, black, grey or brown, matching the substrate, and about 10 per cent are xanthomorphic, undergoing a colour metamorphosis at varying stages of growth. It is an experimental fish used in behavioural studies. Maximum length is about 24 cm standard length. It is of no interest to fisheries, is a gamefish and is a commercial aquarium fish. Fishing vulnerability is low to moderate at 32 of 100 and resilience medium. IUCN lists it as least concern.
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