Fin's Fish Guide
The Saddle cichlid (Aequidens tetramerus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 19 cm.
Fresh water of the Amazon and Orinoco region in South America, in calm rivers, creeks and floodplains.
Description
The saddle cichlid is a sturdy South American cichlid of the family Cichlidae reaching about 19 cm. The laterally compressed, brownish body has a yellow and bluish sheen, faint vertical bars and a conspicuous dark spot in the middle of the flank. The species comes from the Amazon and Orinoco regions and lives in quiet rivers, creeks and floodplains. As an omnivore it searches the bottom for insect larvae, worms, small crustaceans, plant matter and detritus. In reproduction it forms pairs that lay the eggs on a cleaned surface and fiercely guard the brood and young - a form of devoted parental care typical of many cichlids. Because of its behaviour and colour it is popular in the aquarium hobby.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Saddle cichlid?
The Saddle cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Sturdy South American cichlid with a dark flank blotch and faint vertical bars; forms pairs that guard the eggs on a substrate.
Where does the Saddle cichlid live?
The Saddle cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Fresh water of the Amazon and Orinoco region in South America, in calm rivers, creeks and floodplains.
How big does the Saddle cichlid get?
The Saddle cichlid grows to a maximum of about 19 cm.
Is the Saddle cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Saddle cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Saddle cichlid edible?
The Saddle cichlid is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Aequidens
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Saddle cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Saddle cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.