Description

The T-Bar Cichlid is found along the Pacific slope from Costa Rica to Panama. Here they inhabit rivers and streams with gravelly substrate and moderate to strong current. The aquarium should be at least 3ft long for a single pair, with a much more spacious tank (5ft+) required for multiple specimens or if keeping with other fish. There should be plenty of hiding places amongst driftwood and rocky caves, and flower pots laid on their side are also much appreciated. If plants are desired, choose tough species such as Java Fern (Microsorum sp.) or Anubias sp. tied onto the wood, as plants rooted in the substrate will be dug up. Filtration should be efficient with areas of moderate water movement, along with some quieter resting spots out of the current. T-Bar Cichlids are considered mildly aggressive, with the exception of when breeding, at which point they will become much more territorial. They are best maintained as a compatible pair. Tankmates, if desired, should only be added if the tank is spacious enough, in case the T-Bar Cichlids decide to breed. Companions can include shoaling fishes such as Buenos Aires tetras and Swordtails, other cichlids should be of similar size and temperament e.g. some of the other more peaceable Central/South American species, and medium sized catfish (Doradids, Loricariids etc). May also be seen on sale as Sajica Cichlid.