Convict Cichlid – Amatitlania Nigrofasciata

The convict cichlid is a hardy and territorial freshwater fish, well-known among aquarists for its striking black vertical stripes that resemble prison bars. Native to Central America, it is a popular choice for hobbyists due to its adaptability, interesting behaviors, and ease of breeding. However, their aggressive nature means they require careful consideration when choosing tank mates.

Quick Overview

Common Names: Convict Cichlid, Zebra Cichlid
Scientific Name: Amatitlania Nigrofasciata
Popularity: Very popular among cichlid enthusiasts and beginner fishkeepers
Adult Size: 4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
Lifespan: 8-10 years
Sexing: Males are larger with longer dorsal and anal fins, while females have a more rounded body and often display orange coloration on their belly.
Temperature: 74-82°F (23-28°C)
pH Range: 6.5-8.0
Water Hardness: 6-20 dGH
Nature: Aggressive and territorial

Natural Habitat & Origin

The convict cichlid is native to the freshwater rivers and lakes of Central America, specifically in Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica, and Panama. They thrive in warm, slow-moving waters with rocky substrates and plenty of hiding spots.

Appearance & Size

Juvenile convict cichlids start at around 1 inch (2.5 cm), with faint striping that becomes more pronounced as they mature. Adults grow between 4-6 inches (10-15 cm). They have black vertical bands on a gray or silver body, with variations like the pink or albino convict cichlid also being available.

Tank Requirements

Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons for a single pair; larger for multiple fish
Preferred Tank Setup: Well-filtered tank with rocks, caves, and hiding spots
Substrate and Decorations: Sand or fine gravel with rocks, driftwood, and caves
Tank Mate Options: Other semi-aggressive cichlids, plecos
Avoid: Small, passive fish like guppies and neon tetras

Water Parameters & Conditions

Temperature: 74-82°F (23-28°C)
pH Range: 6.5-8.0
Water Hardness: 6-20 dGH
Filtration & Oxygenation: Strong filtration with good water circulation
Lighting: Moderate lighting preferred

Diet & Feeding

Convict cichlids are omnivores and will readily eat a variety of foods.

Recommended Foods: High-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, live/frozen foods like brine shrimp and bloodworms
Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily in small portions

Behaviour & Compatibility

Convict cichlids are highly territorial, especially during breeding, and may be aggressive toward tank mates.

Good Tank Mates: Firemouth cichlids, Jack Dempseys, plecos
Avoid: Small, peaceful fish like guppies and angelfish

Breeding

Breeding convict cichlids is very easy. They form strong monogamous pairs and prefer to lay their eggs in caves or crevices. The female lays 100-300 eggs, which both parents guard fiercely. The eggs hatch within 3-5 days, and the fry become free-swimming after a week. Parents continue protecting their young, an unusual behavior among freshwater fish.

Common Health Issues & Prevention

Ich (White Spot Disease): Prevented with stable water conditions and proper quarantine of new fish.

Fin Rot: Caused by poor water quality; keeping the tank clean helps prevent it.

Bloating & Digestive Issues: Overfeeding protein-rich foods can cause bloating; a balanced diet with vegetables helps digestion.

Fun Facts

• Convict cichlids are one of the easiest cichlids to breed.
• Both parents actively care for their young.
• They recognize their owners and can be very interactive.
• Sometimes called the “piranhas of the cichlid world” due to their aggression.