What is a green Texas cichlid?

The green Texas cichlid is a subspecies of the Texas cichlid, a species of medium-sized, freshwater fish. Most cichlids are native to either Africa or South America, however, the Texas cichlid is the only species to originate within the borders of the continental United States.

The subspecies is known as Herichthys cyanoguttatus carpintis. As indicated by the name, they are covered in bright green markings, which have made them popular in the pet trade. The markings are shiny and contrast with their dark gray background scales. They are very aggressive and territorial fish, attacking other fish if kept in the same aquarium or even plants and aquarium equipment.