This beautiful animal lives on the Pacific side of Central America, and is not very far spread. The Sajica belongs to the smaller cichlids of that area, but everything on him gets the heart of the true Central American cichlid fan beating pretty fast. This animal just looks amazing, isn't too big (big dominant males maybe about 15 cm) and has an interesting behaviour. When not spawning, this fish is only mildly agressive. But it is teritorial, so the aquarium has to offer shelter in the form of plants, rocks and roots. Sheltering from above with the help of some floating plants is very appreciated, and the Sajica shows off its brilliant colors.
As long as one offers good clean water, the Sajica is very tolerant with pH, GH and KH, as most of the Central Americans are. The tank should be not too small, at least 55 gallons for a harmonizing couple should be offered. Sajica tolerates other inhabitants, as long they don't fit into its mouth. Perfect would be similar mooded cichlids around its size, and larger livebearers.
When it comes to breeding, Sajica becomes a bit of a digger, but if you plan beforehand, plants are not bothered. Sajicas are great parents, especially the much smaller female becomes a real lioness when she has to defend her youngsters. While breeding, she also changes her colors dramatically and becomes a stunning sight.
They like cooler temperatures of around 74-76 but can be acclimated over a long period of time to a slightly higher temperature to coexist with other common tropical fish.
All in all this cichlid is a perfect choice, even for people who don't have too much experience with cichlid keeping. And I promise one thing: when you have taken your first look into those sparkling, intelligent, astonishingly bright BLUE eyes and into that babyface, you are absolutely lost...
As long as one offers good clean water, the Sajica is very tolerant with pH, GH and KH, as most of the Central Americans are. The tank should be not too small, at least 55 gallons for a harmonizing couple should be offered. Sajica tolerates other inhabitants, as long they don't fit into its mouth. Perfect would be similar mooded cichlids around its size, and larger livebearers.
When it comes to breeding, Sajica becomes a bit of a digger, but if you plan beforehand, plants are not bothered. Sajicas are great parents, especially the much smaller female becomes a real lioness when she has to defend her youngsters. While breeding, she also changes her colors dramatically and becomes a stunning sight.
They like cooler temperatures of around 74-76 but can be acclimated over a long period of time to a slightly higher temperature to coexist with other common tropical fish.
All in all this cichlid is a perfect choice, even for people who don't have too much experience with cichlid keeping. And I promise one thing: when you have taken your first look into those sparkling, intelligent, astonishingly bright BLUE eyes and into that babyface, you are absolutely lost...
