T-Bar Cichlid gold (Cichlasoma sajica)
T-Bar Cichlid gold (Cichlasoma sajica)
Overview
The T-Bar Cichlid gold, a golden colour form of Cichlasoma sajica, is a hardy, attractive dwarf Central American cichlid from Costa Rica that brings vibrant coloration and lively personality to community aquariums. Available for water hardness enthusiasts, this species reaches up to 10cm in length and thrives in tanks of at least 120 litres. Native to the Pacific slope of Central America, the gold T-Bar Cichlid is an excellent choice for aquarists seeking a manageable, colourful Central American cichlid with fascinating personality.
Appearance
The gold T-Bar Cichlid displays stunning golden-yellow coloration that covers the body, creating a vibrant visual effect. The characteristic T-shaped marking may still be visible, though the overall golden hue makes this colour form particularly striking. Males may display more intense colours than females, especially during breeding.
Natural Habitat
The wild-type T-Bar Cichlid is native to the Pacific slope of Central America, especially Costa Rica and western Panama, inhabiting clear streams with rocky substrates.
Aquarium Setup
A minimum tank size of 120 litres is suitable. Use sand or fine gravel substrate, and create a landscape with rocks, caves, and hardy plants. Filtration must be robust, with weekly water changes recommended.
Water Parameters
- Temperature: 23-27°C
- pH: 6.0-7.8
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
- Adult Size: 10cm
- Minimum Tank Size: 120 litres
Feeding
Omnivores. Offer quality cichlid pellets or flakes supplemented with frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and occasional vegetable matter. Feed twice daily.
Behaviour
Forms strong pair bonds. Pairs become very territorial while guarding eggs and fry. Outside breeding, relatively peaceful.
Tank Mates
Suitable: robust similarly sized Central American cichlids in a suitably large tank, large, hardy bottom-dwellers such as some plecos or armored catfish. Avoid small fish, shrimp, slow-moving long-finned fish, very aggressive cichlids, and tiny invertebrates.
Breeding
A pair will spawn readily with caves or flat surfaces. Parents are attentive and may become very territorial while guarding eggs and fry. Raise fry on newly hatched brine shrimp.
Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co
Tropical Fish Co offers healthy gold T-Bar Cichlids with expert guidance on tropical fish UK care. With secure packaging and reliable delivery, we make it easy to buy aquarium fish for sale UK with confidence.