T-Bar Cichlid-3-4"

The T-Bar Cichlid, scientifically known as Amatitlania sajica, is a medium-sized Central American cichlid native to the fast-flowing rivers of Costa Rica. It is named for the dark T-shaped pattern that appears on its body and is known for its attractive coloration, strong parental care, and manageable temperament compared to other Central American cichlids.

Adult T-Bar Cichlids typically reach 4 to 5 inches (10 to 13 cm) in length, with males being slightly larger and more elongated than females. Their base color is light tan to olive, with a bold black lateral stripe intersected by a vertical bar behind the head, forming the characteristic “T” marking. When in breeding condition, both sexes intensify in color, displaying golden, turquoise, and red highlights on the body and fins, especially around the gill covers and ventral area.

A tank of at least 40 gallons is suitable for a pair. The aquarium should include a sand or fine gravel substrate, driftwood, and plenty of rocks or caves to establish territories and serve as potential spawning sites. They enjoy moderate water flow and appreciate some shaded areas created by plants or décor.

Water parameters should include a temperature range of 75 to 82°F (24 to 28°C), a pH between 7.0 and 8.0, and moderate to hard water. Good filtration and regular water changes are important to maintain quality.

Feeding Amatitlania sajica is straightforward. They are omnivores and thrive on a varied diet of high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, and frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and chopped earthworms. Occasional vegetable matter like spirulina flakes or blanched spinach helps maintain digestion and color.

T-Bar Cichlids are generally peaceful for their genus but can become territorial when breeding. They coexist well with other similarly sized Central American cichlids, peaceful catfish, and larger livebearers if provided adequate space.

Breeding is easy in captivity. They are substrate spawners that clean a flat rock or inside a cave before laying eggs. Both parents guard the eggs and fry aggressively, showing dedicated biparental care. Fry can be fed baby brine shrimp or powdered fry food once free-swimming.

Amatitlania sajica (T-Bar Cichlid) is a hardy, colorful, and rewarding species that combines the bold behavior typical of Central American cichlids with a manageable size and strong parental instincts, making it an excellent choice for medium-sized community or cichlid aquariums.