Amatitlania Sajica T Bar Cichlid 3.5cm

Amatitlania Sajica T Bar Cichlid

The Amatitlania sajica, commonly known as the T Bar Cichlid, is a beautiful and relatively peaceful Central American cichlid that can add a touch of vibrancy to the community and cichlid aquariums. Their striking appearance and manageable size make them a popular choice among cichlid enthusiasts. These fish are perfect for hobbyists who want to keep a visually appealing cichlid species without dealing with aggressive behaviour.

The T Bar Cichlid has a beautiful mix of earthy yet vibrant colours. These fish have an oval body shape with a mix of deep purples, browns, and greys as the base colour. On top of this, they have brown, tiger-like stripes that run just after the gill plate and run to the tail. The fins, cheek plate, and body also show speckles and patches of blue, red, purple, and orange for additional contrast. The colours of these fish look especially enhanced in dark environments and look especially stunning in a black water setting where the blue surprisingly just pops more. The average size of the T Bar Cichlid is around 12-15 cm in length.

Breeding Amatitlania sajica is quite possible however is uncommon as these fish are not nearly as popular as they should be. Females are smaller and less vibrant in colour compared to males. She lays her eggs on a flat rock, and the male fertilises them. Both parents protect the eggs and guard the fry once they hatch, displaying interesting parental behaviour.

Tank Recommendations for your Amatitlania Sajica T Bar Cichlid
A minimum tank size of 150 liters is recommended for a pair or small group of cichlids. Providing a sandy or fine gravel substrate is great as these fish will sift through the substrate. Using plenty of hiding spots using rocks, caves, and driftwood will diffuse any minimal aggression. Live plants can be added for additional cover, but make sure they are sturdy species, as these cichlids may uproot delicate plants. The water temperature should be maintained between 24-28°C, with a pH level of 7.0-8.0.

Suitable Tank Buddies
The T Bar Cichlid is generally peaceful but can be territorial, especially during breeding periods. They should however be great with a wide range of medium and larger-sized community fish.

Usually Compatible
Other medium-sized cichlids, larger tetras, barbs, rainbowfish, catfish, and plecos.

Sometimes Compatible
Mildly aggressive fish such are fire mouths and smaller species like panda corydora may be of concern.

Rarely Compatible
Small, slow-moving fish, like neon tetras or guppies, should be avoided. Predatory fish, such as large South American cichlids, may harass or eat the T Bar Cichlid.

Feeding your Amatitlania Sajica T Bar Cichlid
The T Bar Cichlid is an omnivorous species and will accept a wide range of foods. Providing a varied diet of sinking high-quality pellets, with meaty ingredients along with frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and black worms will make a great diet.