Saddle Cichlid (Aequidens tetramerus)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Easy care. Freshwater.

Saddle Cichlid

Quick facts

Scientific nameAequidens tetramerus
FamilyCichlidae
Also known asTetramerus Acara
Care levelEasy
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
DietOmnivore
Adult size10 in
Minimum tank size75 gallons
Water parametersTemp 76-84°F, pH 5.5-7.2, GH 1-12 dGH

Appearance

Tan body with a prominent dark lateral spot (the saddle) and variable barring; coloration ranges widely across populations.

Difficulty and care for the Saddle Cichlid

Easy

Origin and habitat

Amazon and Orinoco basins

Keeper notes

The largest and most robust acara; can be territorial and somewhat aggressive when mature or breeding.

Log Saddle Cichlid in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Saddle Cichlid alongside everything else in your reef.