Saltwater Aquarist

Trimac Cichlid

(Cichlasoma trimaculatum)

Trimac Cichlid (Cichlasoma trimaculatum) in a freshwater aquarium

Species Description…

Scientific Name: Cichlasoma trimaculatum
Common Name: Trimac Cichlid
Species Group: Cichlid
Tank Type: Species-only
Care Level: Intermediate
Temperament: Aggressive
Diet Type: Carnivore
Role in Aquarium: Showpiece Fish
Max Fish Length: 16 (inches)
Min Aquarium Size: 37 (gallons)
Native Range: Pacific slope of western Mexico, Guatemala and El Salvador.
Min Temperature: 73°F
Max Temperature: 86°F
Min pH:
Max pH:
Min GH: dGH
Max GH: dGH
Min Group Size:
Breeding: Easy
Lifespan: years

Overview

  • The Trimac Cichlid (Cichlasoma trimaculatum, also listed as Amphilophus trimaculatus) is a large, colorful Central American cichlid.
  • Native to the Pacific slope of western Mexico, Guatemala and El Salvador.
  • Seriously Fish gives a maximum of 16 in (40 cm). [UNVERIFIED] Most fish stay smaller.
  • Believed to be one of the parents of the flowerhorn hybrid.

Feeding

  • A predator of fish and invertebrates.
  • [UNVERIFIED] Offer quality cichlid pellets, shrimp and similar foods.

Habitat

  • A tank with a base of 48 × 15 in (122 × 38 cm). Much larger is better for adults. [UNVERIFIED]
  • Rocks and bogwood to mark territories. Avoid plants and strong currents.
  • Water: 73–86°F (23–30°C), pH around 7.0.

Fish Care

  • Needs strong filtration for its size. [UNVERIFIED]

Compatibility

  • Fairly aggressive and intolerant of tankmates.
  • Possible only in a very large tank with robust cichlids.

Aquarium Behavior

  • Highly territorial.

Breeding

  • Fairly easy. Pairs spawn on a flat stone, laying up to 1,000 eggs.
  • Excellent parents that guard eggs and fry fiercely.