Cichlasoma Nigrofasciatum Convict Cichlid 5cm

Overview

The Convict Cichlid, Amatitlania nigrofasciata, is a compact Central American cichlid striped in black over a blue-grey body; females show an orange belly patch. It is famously easy to breed and fearless in defending its fry. Native from Guatemala to Panama, it suits beginners who want a lively pair rather than a community fish.

• Adult Size: Around 10–15 cm (4–6 in); males larger
• Lifespan: 8–10 years

Origin

• Native to: Central America from Guatemala and Honduras to Panama
• Habitat: Rivers, streams, ponds and lakes with rock or wood cover

Feeding

• Diet: Omnivorous, completely unfussy
• Preferred Foods: Cichlid pellets, flake, bloodworm, brine shrimp, spirulina, blanched peas
• Feeding Habits: Feed once or twice daily; vary the diet

Tank Mates

• Best with: Its own pair, or robust similar-sized Central American cichlids in big tanks
• Avoid: Small, slow or long-finned fish; peaceful community species

Aggression & Behaviour

• Temperament: Aggressive and bold, violent when breeding
• Territoriality: Highly territorial; will attack far larger fish

Experience Level

• Difficulty: Beginner, but not for community tanks
• Challenges: Aggression and constant breeding; rehoming fry

Water Parameters

• Water Type: Freshwater, hard and alkaline
• Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
• pH: 6.5–8.0
• Hardness: 5–25 dGH
• Flow: Slow to moderate
• Tank Size: Minimum 100 litres for a pair; much larger with other cichlids

Final Notes

Be aware that a pair will breed almost continuously, producing hundreds of fry that are hard to give away, so consider keeping a single sex. Males grow larger with pointed fins and sometimes a small hump; females are smaller with orange on the belly and a dark dorsal spot. Provide caves and flowerpots for spawning and expect digging. Hardy, fascinating and full of personality for a small fish.