Zonatus info needed

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo

Adhlc

Plecostomus
MFK Member
Sep 1, 2007
1,294
59
51
38
Raleigh, NC
I can't seem to find any solid information anywhere on Paratheraps Zonatus aside from their ideal Central American water conditions. I'm mainly looking for max size on males and females as well as dietary needs. I'd assume they're omnivorous like most of the other Vieja/Paratheraps species.

Any information, or feedback on this particular species would be greatly appreciated.
 
Category: Cyprichromini
Habitat: Open Water
Diet: Carnivore
Gender Differences: Dimorphic
Breeding: Maternal Mouthbrooder
Temperament: Mildly Aggressive
Maximum Size: 6″
Temperature: 77 – 79°F
pH: 8.6
Water Hardness: Very Hard { Here is some basic information .. they are very nice fish}
 
Sorry, I meant Paratheraps Zonatus, not Cyprichromis Zonatus.

Thank you for the info though Red Devil.
 
Sorry I didn't mean to post this in the media lounge.
 
Treat them like any other Paratheraps. Large and hungry. Males will reach about 14", females a bit smaller. They eat anything. Really easy to care for.
 
Adhlc;4189476; said:
Sorry I didn't mean to post this in the media lounge.
i moved it for you...the Paratheraps Zonatus is even more beautiful... theres some folks on here that have them... beautiful pictures etc
 
Thanks for the info Modest_Man. Anyone else?
 
Sorry I'm not more specific but there really isn't anything specific you need to know to care for them. Very hardy, no food issues or bloat issues. My only issue was that my female was the meanest fish I've ever owned.
 
Modest_Man;4189934; said:
Sorry I'm not more specific but there really isn't anything specific you need to know to care for them. Very hardy, no food issues or bloat issues. My only issue was that my female was the meanest fish I've ever owned.


I didn't know you kept them Modest, do you have any pictures? I'll be getting a male and female, both around 5" that have started to form a bond - but haven't paired yet. They're going in my 125 with some 2" Synspilum and Argentae grow outs. I am a little concerned about how aggressive they are.
 
As stated, the fish maxes out in most aquariums at around 14"...but like all fish will continue to grow throughout their life. They are extremely aggressive toward con specifics. I started out with seven and was left pretty quick with one. The fish is omnivorous...but does enjoy a protein meal (raw shrimp or scallops is what I feed mine).

It's one of the nicest Paratheraps/Vieja type fish in my collection. Here's mine at 14".

zonatum-900.jpg


zonatum-907.jpg



If you search my threads you will find hundreds of photos of this fish. Good luck.
 
MonsterFishKeepers.com