LYON’S CICHLID (Amphilophus lyonsi) – Upsized 3″

A Powerful and Rare Central American Cichlid

The Lyon’s Cichlid (Amphilophus lyonsi) is a striking and uncommon Central American cichlid admired for its muscular body, bold personality, and impressive adult size. Native to Lake Nicaragua and the San Juan River drainage, this species belongs to the prestigious Amphilophus genus, which includes several of the most iconic large cichlids in the aquarium hobby.

This upsized 3-inch specimen provides hobbyists with an excellent start, allowing you to enjoy watching this magnificent fish develop its full adult colours and commanding presence. Mature males often develop vibrant metallic hues and, under ideal conditions, may form a pronounced nuchal hump (kok), making them an outstanding centrepiece in large predator aquariums.

Monster Aquarium Canada proudly offers healthy Lyon’s Cichlids with professional live fish shipping across Canada. Every fish is carefully selected for health, body shape, and colour before shipment.

Care Requirements

Aquarium Size

A minimum 125-gallon aquarium is recommended for a single adult Lyon’s Cichlid, while 180 gallons or larger is ideal for breeding pairs or community setups with other large Central American cichlids.

Water Parameters

• Scientific Name: Amphilophus lyonsi
• Common Name: Lyon’s Cichlid
• Size: Upsized 3 inches (7.5 cm)
• Adult Size: 12–14 inches (30–35 cm)
• Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
• pH: 7.0–8.0
• Water Hardness: Moderate to Hard
• Care Level: Moderate to Advanced
• Temperament: Aggressive and Territorial
• Diet: Omnivore
• Origin: Lake Nicaragua and San Juan River Basin, Central America
• Lifespan: 10–15 years with proper care

Diet

Lyon’s Cichlids thrive on a varied diet of premium large cichlid pellets, krill, shrimp, earthworms, insects, and occasional frozen foods. Supplementing with quality vegetable-based foods also supports balanced nutrition and long-term health. Avoid feeding mammalian meats, as they are not appropriate for regular use.

Compatible Tank Mates

Due to their territorial nature, Lyon’s Cichlids should only be housed with similarly sized and robust fish.

Suitable tank mates include:

• Red Devil Cichlids
• Midas Cichlids
• Jaguar Cichlids
• Trimac Cichlids
• Vieja species
• Parachromis species
• Large Plecos
• Silver Dollars
• Large Synodontis Catfish

Avoid small community fish or peaceful species, as they may be bullied or viewed as prey.

Why Buy Lyon’s Cichlids from Monster Aquarium Canada?

Healthy Premium Specimens

Our Lyon’s Cichlids are carefully selected for excellent health, strong body structure, and active feeding response before shipping.

Secure Live Fish Shipping Across Canada

Monster Aquarium Canada uses professional live fish shipping methods to safely deliver rare Central American cichlids across Canada.

A True Monster Fish Centrepiece

With its powerful build, bold personality, and impressive adult size, the Lyon’s Cichlid is an outstanding choice for aquarists building a large Central American cichlid aquarium.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How large does the Lyon’s Cichlid grow?

Adult Lyon’s Cichlids typically reach 12 to 14 inches, with males generally growing larger than females.

2. Is the Lyon’s Cichlid aggressive?

Yes. Like most Amphilophus species, they are highly territorial and should only be kept with other robust fish in spacious aquariums.

3. What should I feed a Lyon’s Cichlid?

Offer premium cichlid pellets, krill, shrimp, insects, earthworms, and other high-quality omnivorous foods to maintain excellent health and coloration.

4. Can Lyon’s Cichlids live with other Central American cichlids?

Yes. In sufficiently large aquariums with proper aquascaping, they can be successfully housed with other large and equally robust Central American cichlids.

5. Does Monster Aquarium Canada ship Lyon’s Cichlids across Canada?

Yes. Monster Aquarium Canada provides professional live fish shipping throughout Canada with secure packaging to help ensure your fish arrives healthy and ready for acclimation.