The third bar is usually prominent and coupled with a dark lateral stripe running from the gill cover results in a horizontal T-shaped mark, hence the common name of T-bar cichlid.

The T-bar cichlid inhabits rivers which have moderate to strong currents in Costa Rica at up to 2000 feet of elevation, but they are not found in the rapids.

They are omnivorous, feeding on algal filaments, aquatic insects, seeds and bottom detritus.

Mature females that are ready to spawn have a beautiful golden yellow color on their dorsal and anal fins.

The female will find a secluded shelter to lay many eggs such as a large crevice between rocks or a nest dug in the gravel.