Cichlasoma trimaculatum
Three Spot Cichlid, Trimac
Classification
Cichlidae
Distribution
Western parts of Mexico, Guatemala and El Salvador. There are also feral populations in both the USA and Singapore.
Habitat
Found mainly in sluggish waters of the Pacific coastal plains and surrounding lowlands. It tends to be associated with soft substrates of mud and sand, where it lives among submerged roots, branches and vegetation.
Maximum Standard Length
14″ (40cm)
Aquarium SizeTop ↑
48″ x 15″ x 15″
Maintenance
Rocks and bogwood to form territories. Lives in lakes and slower moving water in the wild, so avoid strong current in the aquarium. Plants are best avoided as the will be uprooted. Trimacs will rearrange the tank as they see fit!
Water Conditions
Temperature: 74 to 86°f (23 to 30°C)
pH: 7.0
Hardness: Moderate hardness of around 15 gH
Diet
A predatory species that feeds on other fish and both aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates.
Behaviour and CompatibilityTop ↑
A fairly aggressive cichild, the trimac will not tolerate other tankmates easily. It may be possible to keep this fish as part of a large robust cichild community if enough tank space is provided.
Sexual Dimorphism
Males is larger and may be more colourful.
Reproduction
Breeding is fairly easy. The pair usually select a flat stone and spawn on that. Up to 1000 eggs may be laid. Trimacs make excellent parents and will guard the eggs fiercely. Both parents will also tend the fry when hatched.
NotesTop ↑
Cichlasoma Trimaculatus is a large colourful cichlid, if a little aggressive. It is believed to be one of the fish that was used to create the hybrid Flowerhorn cichlid. We prefer it in its natural state.
As with most large cichlids they can be fairly messy eaters so ensure decent filtration is provided. It is recommended to use a spraybar to disperse the water returning to the tank as trimacs will not appreciate strong flow.
