Mayaheros urophthalmus, previously classified under the genus Cichlasoma and the subgeneric section Nandopsis, has undergone taxonomic revisions. The genus Cichlasoma has now been restricted to 12 South American cichlid species closely related to Cichlasoma bimaculatum. As a result, many of the approximately 100 species previously attributed to Cichlasoma await formal assignment to new genera.
The Mayan cichlid can be found in Middle America, specifically the Atlantic slope of tropical Mesoamerica. Its natural distribution spans from eastern Mexico all the way south to Nicaragua. Although native to this region, the species has also established itself as a common nonindigenous fish in South Florida, first recorded in Everglades National Park in 1983.
Mayan cichlids inhabit a wide range of aquatic environments, including freshwater marshes, mangrove swamps, lakes, rivers, rocky shorelines, lagoons, estuaries, and coastal islands. Adult specimens show a preference for coastal lagoons and rivers, although they have also displayed adaptability to survive in marine conditions. They tend to inhabit areas near submerged vegetation with abundant dissolved oxygen content, but their unique ability to conform to low-oxygen environments allows them to endure extreme hypoxic conditions for short durations.
With a maximum length of approximately 39.4 cm, Mayaheros urophthalmus is one of the larger cichlid species. The body shape is oval and flattened on the sides, tapering towards the mouth. The fish possesses spiny fins and exhibits various colorations depending on its life stage. Typically, it has a base color ranging from yellow-brown to gray-brown, intensifying to vibrant red during the breeding period. Younger fish often display reddish hues on the head and throat. The caudal fin, dorsal fin, and anal fin's soft sections may also exhibit reddish tones. A notable feature is the presence of six wide green-black vertical stripes crossing the body's sides, extending from the base of the pectoral fin to the base of the caudal fin. Additionally, the species' tail stem boasts a large black eye spot encircled with blue-green, accounting for its scientific name "urophthalmus."
In its native range, the Mayan cichlid holds significant importance as a popular food fish. Its delectable flesh has contributed to the development of regional fisheries and aquaculture practices. Wild specimens exhibit a more brilliant red coloration compared to captive ones. However, the vibrancy of their colors can be partially maintained through proper nutrition. Feeding the fish live foods and incorporating Vitamin A-rich sources into their diet aids in preserving the striking red pigmentation, as Vitamin A breaks down into the red pigment beta-carotene within their bodies.
The Mayan cichlid has attracted considerable scientific attention, emerging as one of the most-studied Neotropical cichlids. Researchers have primarily focused their investigations on populations in southeastern Mexico, particularly the Yucatan Peninsula. Understanding the biology and behavior of this species contributes to broader insights into cichlid evolution and adaptive mechanisms.
During the breeding season, Mayan cichlids exhibit territorial behavior and aggression. As parents, they display high levels of care and protection for their offspring. The species follows a monogamous, biparental substrate spawning strategy, with minimal sexual dimorphism. Their breeding period typically spans nine months, from March to November, aligning with the wet season, when water temperatures remain above 24 degrees Celsius. Multiple broods are raised annually.
The newly hatched fry possess distinct characteristics. They exhibit positive geotactic behavior, swimming actively downward to the substrate and attaching themselves using three pairs of mucous glands. Parental care extends for approximately six weeks, showcasing the species' remarkable commitment to nurturing their young.