Mesonauta Festivus (Flag Cichlid)

The Mesonauta Festivus, commonly known as the Flag Cichlid, is a peaceful and elegant South American cichlid admired for its tall, laterally compressed body and distinctive black diagonal stripe running across its eye and body.

Origin

This species originates from the slow-moving rivers, tributaries, and floodplains of the Amazon Basin in countries such as Brazil, Peru, Colombia, and the Guianas. They are often found among submerged roots, branches, and dense vegetation.

Size

Flag Cichlids typically grow up to 12–15 cm, making them a medium-sized cichlid.

Diet

They are omnivorous and thrive on a varied diet including:

High-quality flakes or pellets

Frozen foods such as bloodworms and brine shrimp

Vegetable matter such as spirulina 

A balanced diet enhances their natural coloration and overall health.

Characteristics

Tall, disk-like body shape

Distinctive black diagonal stripe (“flag” marking)

Graceful swimming style

Sensitive to poor water quality

Their base colour ranges from silver to light brown.