Cryptoheros question

[coltiger1975]

Might be a silly question, I have two juvenile Sajica. A male and female probably around two inches. I also have 8 spilurus biggest 2 inches down to 3/4 inch. I wanted to know if I could grow them out in an 80 gallon for a short period. About six months tops.

I have the spilurus with Angels no issues but the Sajica seem to be more aggressive. I don't plan keeping long term as not wanting hybrids. Thanks

 

[Gman9272]

There would always be the chance one of or both the Sajicas pair up with one of the spilurus. One created no hybrids two causing added aggression in the tank. I would keep all of those types of cichlids separate to avoid hybrid fish

 

[duanes]

An 80 sounds like a good grow out tank.
My female sajica was ready to start spawning (and did) at just over two inches, and they became very aggressive at that point as a pair, to the point of killing any other cichlids in their similar size tank, so need to be watched carefully.
Below a 2" female sajica in spawning colors, and if you look hard, you can see her breeding tube has dropped.

The male outgrew her quickly and became a formidable threat to any other tank residents, so they were removed.

 

[coltiger1975]

Thanks guys.

I will grow them separate as I am thinking the Sajica is probably too much for the spilurus as far as aggression. I don't think it is wise since the spilurus are one of my favourite cichlids. I also have some juvie dimerus coming that would probably be better suited as far as temperament goes for the spilurus. I know they prefer cooler temps overall but could meet in the middle while growing out?