Trimac Cichlid
Amphilophus trimaculatus
The Trimac is a massive, incredibly aggressive Central American cichlid. Famous for the three distinct dark spots along its flanks, it is the primary ancestral species of the man-made Flowerhorn hybrid. A true 'glass-banger', it requires a huge tank, heavy filtration, and is highly intolerant of tank mates. It constantly digs and rearranges decor.
Trimac Cichlid At a Glance
Trimac Cichlid Tank Requirements
Will Trimac Cichlid fit in your tank?
Care guides tell you what Trimac Cichlid needs, the next question is whether your tank can safely provide it. Test Trimac Cichlid against your tank size, maintenance needs, and the fish you already keep before you buy.
Trimac Cichlid Water Parameters
Trimac Cichlid Temperament & Compatibility
Trimac Cichlid Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Male (Adult)
Adult males grow exceptionally large and develop a massive nuchal hump (kok) and extended fins. They are hyper-aggressive and are almost universally kept as solitary wet pets.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Show Male, Bull
Female (Adult)
Females are significantly smaller than males and do not develop the large nuchal hump. While slightly less violently aggressive, they are still highly territorial and predatory.
Differs in 4 traits from base species
Also known as: Female Trimac
Juvenile (Grow-out)
Juvenile Trimacs are often sold between 5-10cm. They will rapidly outgrow smaller aquariums and begin systematically eliminating tank mates as they mature. Must be moved to a large tank quickly.
Differs in 4 traits from base species
Also known as: Baby Trimac, Fry
Trimac Cichlid Care Guide Summary
The Trimac Cichlid, scientifically known as Amphilophus trimaculatus, belongs to the Cichlids - Central American family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 35 cm and have a compressed body shape with a fast growth rate. Classified as highly aggressive, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a extreme level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Trimac Cichlid requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 450 litres and a tank length of at least 150 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 24°C and 30°C, with a pH range of 6.5–8 and a general hardness of 5–20 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Due to its specialist needs, the Trimac Cichlid is best suited for fishkeepers who can provide a carefully planned setup. This species is available in 3 varieties: Male (Adult), Female (Adult), and Juvenile (Grow-out). Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Trimac Cichlid Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Trimac Cichlid, a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the mid-level and bottom zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include a sand substrate to accommodate their sifting behaviour, smooth gravel or rounded substrate to protect their sensitive barbels, and driftwood, which can serve as both a hiding place and a dietary supplement. Keepers should note that expect substrate disturbance, so lightweight décor should be secured and live planted layouts may be difficult to maintain, as this species tends to uproot or consume vegetation.
Trimac Cichlid Compatibility Notes
Classified as highly aggressive, the Trimac Cichlid is best housed alone, as they do not tolerate others of their kind in confined spaces. When choosing tankmates, any fish small enough to fit in its mouth will likely be eaten, conspecific aggression can be intense, especially in smaller tanks, and territorial behaviour may cause issues if hiding spots or floor space are limited. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the mid-level and bottom zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Who Trimac Cichlid Is Actually For
Trimac Cichlid is best for a fishkeeper who expects a species with attitude and plans the tank around that behavior and can provide someone who understands its individual space requirements. It makes the most sense for a hobbyist who will actually build around its needs, especially sand.
The most common mistake is treating Trimac Cichlid like any other community fish and skipping the soft sand it needs to forage safely. Another frequent problem is forcing it into an over-busy community when it would do better with more room or more deliberate tankmate choices.
Trimac Cichlid Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Trimac Cichlid.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trimac Cichlid
How big does Trimac Cichlid get?
Trimac Cichlid (Amphilophus trimaculatus) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 35 cm. They have a compressed body shape and a fast growth rate.
What tank size does Trimac Cichlid need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 450 litres and a tank length of at least 150 cm are recommended for Trimac Cichlid. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Trimac Cichlid need?
Trimac Cichlid thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 24–30°C, a pH between 6.5 and 8, and a general hardness of 5–20 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Is Trimac Cichlid peaceful or aggressive?
Trimac Cichlid is classified as highly aggressive with an aggression score of 10 out of 10. Careful tankmate selection is essential to avoid conflict.
Can Trimac Cichlid live with others of its kind?
No. Only one Trimac Cichlid should be kept per tank. Keeping multiples in the same aquarium typically results in aggression and stress.
Does Trimac Cichlid have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Trimac Cichlid benefits from sand (sifters), driftwood (digestion/hiding), and smooth gravel (sensitive barbels) in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Useful setup supplies
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Guidarium Editorial Desk
Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.
- Last reviewed
- May 11, 2026
- Last updated
- May 11, 2026
- Issues or corrections?
- Contact the editorial team
Plants That Suit Trimac Cichlid
These plants pair well with Trimac Cichlid based on shared water preferences, layout fit, and how likely they are to hold up in the same aquarium.
Afzel's Anubias
Anubias afzelii
Anubias Barteri
Anubias barteri
Belinda's Buce
Bucephalandra belindae
Buce Motleyana
Bucephalandra motleyana
Congo Anubias
Anubias heterophylla
Dwarf Buce
Bucephalandra pygmaea
Fish Similar to Trimac Cichlid
Flowerhorn Cichlid
Hybrid cichlid (Amphilophus cross)
A man-made hybrid cichlid famous for its vibrant colors, extreme interactive personality, and the large nuchal hump (kok) on its head. They are incredibly aggressive 'wet pets' that will attack hands, tank mates, and equipment. They have a massive bioload, dig constantly, and must almost always be kept completely alone.
Vieja fenestrata
Vieja fenestrata
A large, robust Central American cichlid known for its beautiful speckled patterns and a prominent dark lateral bar. Primarily herbivorous in the wild, they are highly territorial and aggressive, especially towards conspecifics. Due to their massive adult size and digging behavior, they require large aquariums, heavy filtration, and robust hardscape. They will actively uproot and consume live plants.
Black Belt Cichlid
Vieja maculicauda
A large, powerful, and strikingly colored Central American cichlid known for the distinctive vertical black band across its midsection and vivid red flushing on its throat and tail. They are highly territorial, aggressive, and notorious for re-arranging the aquarium. They are primarily herbivorous in the wild but will eat almost anything, including smaller fish. They cannot be kept in planted tanks.
Macaw Cichlid
Hypsophrys nicaraguensis
A robust and stunning Central American cichlid. Uniquely among many cichlids, the females are actually more vibrantly colored than the males. They are notorious diggers and cave-spawners that will rearrange substrate. Best kept with other similarly sized, robust Central American cichlids in a large tank.
Tailbar Cichlid
Vieja hartwegi
A robust and highly intelligent Central American cichlid known for its broad vertical tail bar, metallic sheen, and bold personality. Like many large Vieja species, they are heavy diggers, plant destroyers, and high waste producers. They can become fiercely aggressive, particularly towards similar-looking species or if their tank is too small.
Salvini Cichlid
Trichromis salvini
The Salvini Cichlid is a stunning but notoriously aggressive Central American cichlid. In a rare twist for cichlids, females are actually more brightly colored than males, displaying vivid yellow bodies with striking red bellies and contrasting black markings. They are highly territorial ambush predators and will actively hunt smaller fish. Best kept in a large, species-only setup or with similarly robust, heavily armored tank mates.