Are you ready to catch the Mayan cichlid? Also known by a host of names like the Mexican mojarra, false red terror, and atomic sunfish, this vibrant and aggressive fish is a favorite target for anglers from the Yucatán Peninsula to the canals of Southern Florida.First scientifically described by Günther in 1862, this hardy species has proven to be a remarkably successful invader. This guide will serve as your ultimate resource for understanding this fascinating fish. We’ll explore its biology and morphology, discuss its potential impacts as an invasive species, and, most importantly, teach you exactly how to catch it.
Overview: The Mayan Cichlid Profile
The Mayan cichlid is a member of the diverse Cichlidae family. Native to the Atlantic slope of Central America, it is a secondary freshwater fish, meaning it thrives in a wide range of salinities from freshwater marshes and rivers to brackish mangrove swamps and coastal lagoons.
| Scientific Name | Cichlasoma urophthalmus (sometimes classified as Mayaheros urophthalmus) |
| Common Name(s) | Mojarra, Mexican mojarra, Mayan cichlid, orange tiger |
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Identifying Characteristics | The fish is oval in shape and has spiny fins, wide vertical stripes, and eyespots on its tail which confuse predators. It is usually olive-brown to beige in color. |
| Depth Range | 2m |
| Habitat | The fish is native to Central America, particularly to the slope waters of southeastern Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. |
| Limits | Check your local regulations |
| Largest Recorded | N/A |
| Status | No |
| Identifying Characteristics | It has a classic, oval-shaped “sunfish” body with spiny fins. Its color ranges from olive-brown to a vibrant orange-red, with 5-7 distinct, dark vertical bars. Its most defining feature is the large, black eyespot ringed in turquoise at the base of its tail, which is used to confuse predators. |
| Behavior | The morphology of the Mayan cichlid is that of an opportunistic predator. It feeds on small fish and invertebrates. A fascinating aspect of the ontogeny of the nonindigenous Mayan cichlid is its reproductive strategy; it is a biparental substrate spawner, with both parents aggressively guarding their eggs and fry (young fish). |
The Invasion: From Native to Nonindigenous
The discovery of the invasive Mayan cichlid fish in Southern Florida in the early 1980s was a significant event for fisheries biologists. Likely introduced through the aquarium trade, this species has become one of the most abundant non-native fish in the Everglades ecosystem. Its wide diet and tolerance for a range of habitats have allowed it to spread rapidly.The potential impacts of this invasion are a subject of ongoing study in the journal of aquatic invasions. Researchers like Nico LG and others are monitoring how this aggressive species competes with native sunfish and bass for food and habitat. Similar invasions have also been documented in places like Thailand, as detailed in a study by Tan HH.
Where to Find Mayan Cichlids
The Mayan cichlid prefers the shallows. Look for them in:
- Canals and residential lakes in Southern Florida.
- Mangrove swamps and coastal lagoons.
- Ditches, ponds, and slow-moving streams.
- They are structure-oriented and will almost always be found near cover like dock pilings, fallen trees, rock piles, and thick vegetation.
How to Catch Mayan Cichlids: The Complete Guide
You can catch mojarra using a light spinning setup. An ultralight rod with a 1000 to 2000-size spinning reel is a perfect choice.
- Line: Use a 4lb to 8lb test line. While they can be caught on a 2lb line, the heavier line is better for pulling them out of the heavy cover they prefer.
- Hooks: Even the largest Mayan cichlid has a relatively small mouth. Use a small, sharp hook (size 4 to 8) to ensure a good hookup.
Mayan cichlids are aggressive and curious, so they can be caught with both bait and lures.
The Best Baits
- Live Baits: The number one best bait is a small, live freshwater shrimp. Small minnows and worms (like red wigglers) are also extremely effective.
- Cut Baits: Small pieces of cut shrimp or fish will also work well.
- Dough Balls: A simple piece of white bread molded onto a hook is a surprisingly effective and cheap bait.
The Best Lures
- Small Jigs: A 1/16 or 1/8 ounce jig head with a small, 1-2 inch soft plastic grub or tube is a fantastic choice.
- Small Crankbaits and Jerkbaits: A tiny, floating Rapala or a similar small crankbait worked with a twitch-and-pause retrieve is a great way to trigger a reaction strike.
- Flies: For the fly angler, a small, weighted shrimp or baitfish imitation is deadly.
Fishing Tactics and Tips
- The Twitch: When using a lure, the key is an erratic retrieve. Cast your lure to a promising-looking piece of cover, let it sit for a moment, and then give it a series of sharp twitches to attract the fish’s attention.
- The Stare-Down: When using a small jig, you can often “sight fish” for them. Drop the jig in front of a visible mojarra and just let it sit. Twitch it slightly to get the fish’s interest. They will often stare at it for a long time before finally taking a bite.
How to Clean and Cook Mojarra
Mayan cichlids are excellent to eat. Their flesh is white, firm, and has a clean, mild flavor. Frying them whole is the most popular method.
Recipe: Mojarra Frita (Fried Mojarra)
- Clean the Fish: Scale the fish and remove the entrails. Rinse it thoroughly inside and out.
- Score and Season: Pat the fish dry and make a few shallow, diagonal cuts on both sides. Season it generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Dredge in Flour: Lightly coat the entire fish in flour.
- Fry: Heat about one inch of vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Carefully place the fish in the hot oil and fry for about 7-8 minutes per side, or until it is golden brown, crispy, and cooked through.
- Serve: Let it drain on a plate lined with paper towels and serve immediately with fresh lime wedges, hot sauce, and tortillas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Mexican mojarra prey on smaller fish and aquatic invertebrates such as snails. They are also known to eat flies and mosquitos.
The name ‘mojarra’ actually describes a species of saltwater fish, but the term is used to describe several freshwater cichlids, such as tilapia. The tilapia looks quite like the Mexican mojarra and are about the same size, thus the confusion.
Nests are oblong, shallow depressions and can be found in the spongy root masses of mangroves.
The mojarra is targeted by anglers because of its beauty and also because of its palatable flesh. Its aggressive approach to bait also makes it a favorite among fishermen who love a challenge. The species is available for aquariums but only for those who have the proper facilities to house it.
Mojarra is a two-banded sea bream that can be found in shallow fresh and saltwater environments.
Conclusion
The Mayan cichlid is a fascinating fish. It’s a beautiful native species in its home range and a tenacious invasive species in others. For the light-tackle angler, it offers an exciting challenge and a delicious reward. By understanding their behavior and using the right small baits and lures, you can have a fantastic day catching these colorful and aggressive fish.
