Mayheros urophthalmus, commonly known as the Mayan cichlid, is a colorful freshwater fish native to Central America. It thrives in diverse habitats, from rivers to brackish waters. Notable for its striking vertical stripes and orange-red coloration, this species exhibits territorial behavior and parental care.

Mayaheros urophthalmus, commonly known as the Mayan cichlid, is native to Central America. Its geographical distribution includes the Atlantic slope of southeastern Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. It is found primarily in the Yucatán Peninsula and the adjacent parts of the Caribbean coastal plain.

The Mayan cichlid typically inhabits freshwater and brackish environments. It is commonly found in a variety of aquatic habitats including rivers, lakes, wetlands, and coastal lagoons. The species is adaptable to a range of water conditions, often thriving in slow-moving or stagnant waters with plentiful vegetation. The water temperature in its habitat usually ranges from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius (77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit), and it can tolerate a wide range of salinities.

The Mayan cichlid occupies a diverse ecological niche as both a predator and an omnivore. It feeds on a wide range of food sources such as insects, small fish, crustaceans, and plant material. This adaptability in diet helps it to thrive in various environmental conditions and contributes to its success in both native and non-native habitats.