Amatitlania Septemfasciata 3cm

Amatitlania Septemfasciata

The Amatitlania Septemfasciata, is a fantastic small, hardy, and relatively peaceful South American cichlid species. These fish are really not common in the aquarium, a hobby simply due to a lack of awareness however they are closely related to convict and blue-eye cichlids. Caring for these fish in captivity is quite easy and they will make for a great rarer cichlid to keep for aquarists that are restricted on space. Not only will Amatitlania Septemfasciata look great in a smaller South American cichlid community but also in a biotope-style system as well. 

Fully-grown Amatitlania Septemfasciata only reaches around 10 cm in length. They have a very light and earthy array of body colours with the main tone being a light brown. This is mostly around the face which can then transition onto olive green, dark orange, and white. Certain patches on the fish especially near the fins can sport a blue sheen as well. Amatitlania Septemfasciata is also known as 7-stripe cichlids due to the vertical barring that adult fish can develop. These stripes are only really present based on the environment and mood of the fish, they do however have a much more prominent eye spot on the middle of the body and the tail. 

Breeding Amatitlania Septemfasciata in captivity is possible and generally requires no direct stimulus as long as the fish are in an adequate aquarium. Males will be larger in size with extended dorsal and ventral fins. The colours will also be much more prominent when compared to males. These fish are typical substrate spawners. The female will lay her eggs on a carefully cleaned rock or in a pit, and both parents participate actively in guarding the eggs and fry, showcasing a fascinating level of parental care. During this period, their territorial behaviour will intensify considerably.

Tank Recommendations for your Amatitlania Septemfasciata

Amatitlania Septemfasciata are generally peaceful fish however they can display territorial behaviour, especially in smaller aquariums. To avoid this and to make sure the fish have ample space the minimum aquarium size would be 150 liters which are also fine for a pair. They prefer setups that offer numerous hiding spots such as caves, tunnels, and overhangs. They are not particular about plants, but any plant should be well rooted or epiphytes as these cichlids are known to dig. The water temperature should range between 24-28°C with a pH level of 6.0-7.5.

Suitable Tank Buddies

In a larger aquarium, Amatitlania Septemfasciata should get along with fast, larger community fish that won't dispute over territory. These are mostly bottom to mid-dwelling species meaning top dwellers will also be better. 

Usually Compatible

Larger active species such as Goyder River rainbowfish, giant danios, yoyo loaches, red tail sharks, and angelfish. 

Sometimes Compatible

Peaceful large tetras emperors or black neon tetras. In larger aquariums, other cichlid species like convicts or blue eye cichlids will also work fine. 

Rarely Compatible

Small, slow-moving species like neon tetras would become potential prey for these cichlids. Large predatory fish are also unsuitable such as Dovii or peacock bass as they would eat the Amatitlania Septemfasciata. 

Feeding your Amatitlania Septemfasciata 

Amatitlania Septemfasciata Cichlids are omnivorous and have a robust appetite. A balanced diet of high-quality cichlid pellets, supplemented with live, frozen, or freeze-dried foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia will ensure their health. Occasionally, they can also be offered blanched vegetable matter like zucchini or pumpkin.