Salvini Cichlid (Trimitochromis salvini) is a intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 75 gallons and 72-82°F. A bold yellow, red and black Central American cichlid. It is a strong, feisty fish that defends caves and will bully or eat smaller tankmates, so give it a roomy tank and sturdy neighbors.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Trimitochromis salvini |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | Southern Mexico to Guatemala and Belize, Central America |
| Adult size | 6-7 in |
| Minimum tank | 75 gallons |
| Temperature | 72-82°F |
| pH | 6.5-7.8 |
| Temperament | Aggressive, territorial |
| Social behavior | Pair or solitary |
| Swim level | Bottom to mid |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Carnivore: cichlid pellets, frozen foods, live foods |
| Typical lifespan | 10-12 years |
Quick tips
- Use a tank of 75 gallons or more with caves and rockwork.
- Do not mix with small or timid fish.
- Keep the lid secure and the filtration strong.
San Diego water
Tolerates San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water (pH roughly 7.6-8.6) with slow acclimation and a conditioner that handles chloramine. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi