Convict Cichlid Guide: Care, Diet, Breeding & Tank Size
I was watching a white and black striped fish in the aquarium in my daughter’s school office room. I was just wondering what is the name of this fish and what species is it. I took a picture of the fish for further research.
When I was watching the picture at night, I recognized it as a convict cichlid. This 4-5 inches fish is a member of the South American cichlid family known as the zebra cichlid or criminal cichlid. It is so popular with aquarists because of its freshwater fish and beautiful zebra stripes.
Although it looks very nice, if you are a convict cichlid owner, you have to be a little careful because they are somewhat aggressive in nature.
Today in this blog post you will know everything about convict cichlid no secret will be kept. What species is it, how is it called convict cichlid, ideal tank mate, care, tank size, and breeding all will be discussed with you today?
By the time you finish the blog post, you too will become an experienced aquarist on convict cichlids.
Overview of convict cichlid fish
The Convict cichlid is native to Central America and parts of South America. It has also been introduced to Florida, Hawaii, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico.
The Convict cichlid is a small, stocky fish that reaches a maximum length of about 6 inches (15 cm). It is dark gray in color with vertical black bars on the body and fins. The Convict cichlid is a very aggressive fish that is known to be territorial. It is also a very popular fish in the aquarium trade.
The original scientific name of the fish was Cryptoheros nigrofasciatus. The Convict cichlid is also known by a variety of common names, including Black convict, Zebra cichlid, and Striped convict.
The Convict cichlid is a popular aquarium fish because it is relatively easy to care for and is very hardy. It is also a very aggressive fish, which can make it an interesting addition to the aquarium.
If you are thinking about adding a Convict cichlid to your aquarium, be sure to research the fish before making your purchase. You will want to make sure that you are getting healthy fish from a reputable dealer.
Convict cichlid fish secret information:
| Family Name | Cichlidae |
| Convict Cichlid Fish Origin Location | Central America |
| Behavior | Aggressive |
| Tank Level | Mid-dweller |
| Minimum Tank Size | Must be 30 gallons |
| Max length | 10.0 cm SL male/unsexed |
| Convict Cichlid Diet | Omnivore |
| Convict Cichlid Breeding | Egg layer |
| pH Range | 7.0 – 8.0 |
| Water Hardness | 9-20 dkH |
| Aquarium Tank Water Temperature | 68 to 77 F (20 to 25 C) |
Advantages and Disadvantages of convict cichlid Fish
Like with any other pet farming, there are advantages and disadvantages to having convict cichlids fish. Understanding these can help you determine whether or not keeping these little guys is the right thing for you.
Now I’ll share some pros and cons of having convict cichlid fish:
Convict cichlids can make great pets for those who are looking for an active and aggressive fish. They are also very easy to care for and don’t require a lot of maintenance. Just be sure to do your research before making your purchase and be prepared to deal with their aggressive nature.
The appearance of convict cichlids fish
When I first learned about this fish, I had no idea what a decorated cichlid fish really looked like. But now for almost 3 years, I have 3 pairs of convict cichlids in my aquarium.
After that, I started researching the appearance of the fish and suddenly found some surprising information about it in a magazine.
The convict cichlid fish is a freshwater fish that is found in rivers, streams and lakes in Central America. The fish is named after the black vertical bars on its body which are said to resemble the stripes on a convict’s uniform.
The body of the fish is oval in shape and it has a pointed nose. The eyes of the fish are large and protrude out of the head. The mouth of the fish is wide and has sharp teeth.
The convict cichlid fish can grow up to a length of 8 inches. The female fish are usually smaller in size than the males.
In the natural habitat, convict cichlids eat plants, algae, small fish, crustaceans, insects, and worms. But in captivity, they can be fed with pellets, flakes, and live and frozen foods.
The striped cichlid fish is a very popular aquarium fish due to its beautiful bar and spot pattern. You will find them in different colors like orange, yellow, red, blue, and green which will add beauty to your aquarium.
Both male and female fish have a total of 5 fins. The dorsal fin, anal fin, caudal fin (tail fin), pectoral fins and pelvic fins.
The male fish have long and beautiful fins which are used to attract the female fish during the breeding season. The fins of the female fish are shorter and not as beautiful as the fins of the male fish. During the breeding season, the female (convict cichlid) fish lays hundreds of eggs which are fertilized by the male fish.
The convict cichlid fish is a very popular aquarium fish due to its beautiful coloration and pattern. The fish is very easy to care for and can live up to 10 years in captivity.
However, the fish is very aggressive and should be kept in a single species aquarium or with other large and aggressive fish. Also, the fish can become very violent during the breeding season.
If you are looking for a beautiful and aggressive fish for your aquarium then the convict cichlid fish is the perfect choice for you.
convict cichlids color
Convict cichlids are a type of fish that come in many different colors. The most common color is black, but it can also be found in shades of blue, green, and yellow.
Some people think that the different colors are related to the fish’s mood; for example, a black convict cichlid is considered to be aggressive, while a yellow convict cichlid is considered to be more passive. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
Types of convict cichlids Fish
Convict cichlids are a type of fish that come from the family Cichlidae. There are many different types of convict cichlids, and they can be found in many different parts of the world. Some of the most common types of convict cichlids include the orange flame, Kribensis, and rainbow cichlid.
Convict cichlids are a popular choice for fish enthusiasts because they are colorful and easy to care for. They can be kept in a tank with other fish, or they can be bred in captivity to create a beautiful aquarium display.
1. Black Convict Cichlid
The Black Convict Cichlid is the most popular color of the species. They are easily recognizable with their black vertical stripes on a light gray body. Black Convict Cichlids are considered to be one of the most aggressive fish in the freshwater aquarium world.
2. Blue Convict Cichlid
The Blue Convict Cichlid is a beautiful fish that comes in a variety of shades, from light blue to dark navy. They are often found in the wild swimming in pairs or small groups.
Like other convict cichlids, the Blue Convict Cichlid is a very aggressive fish and should not be kept with other fish of similar size. They are best suited for an aquarium with plenty of hiding places where they can retreat when threatened.
3. Red Convict Cichlid
The Red Convict Cichlid is, as its name suggests, a redfish. They are the second most common color of convict cichlid after the blue variety.
In the wild, Red Convict Cichlids are found in Central and South America where they inhabit rivers and lakes. They are hardy fish that can adapt to a wide range of water conditions.
Red Convict Cichlids are very aggressive, like other members of their species, and should not be kept with other fish of similar size. They need plenty of hiding places in their aquarium so they can retreat when threatened.
4. Green Convict Cichlid
The Green Convict Cichlid is a beautiful fish that comes in a variety of shades, from light green to dark navy. They are often found in the wild swimming in pairs or small groups.
Like other convict cichlids, the Green Convict Cichlid is a very aggressive fish and should not be kept with other fish of similar size. They are best suited for an aquarium with plenty of hiding places where they can retreat when threatened.
Green Convict Cichlids are very aggressive, like other members of their species, and should not be kept with other fish of similar size. They need plenty of hiding places in their aquarium so they can retreat when threatened.
5. Orange Convict Cichlid
The orange convict cichlid is a brightly-colored fish that is native to Central America. This fish is a popular choice for aquariums, as it is hardy and can thrive in a variety of water conditions.
The orange coloration of the convict cichlid is caused by a pigment called beta carotene, which is also responsible for the color of carrots. This pigment is also found in other orange-colored fish, such as the goldfish.
Like other convict cichlids, the orange convict cichlid is a very aggressive fish and should not be kept with other fish of similar size. This fish is also known to be a bit nippy, so it is best to keep it with larger fish that can defend themselves.
The orange convict cichlid is an oviparous fish, meaning that it lays eggs. The female will lay her eggs in a cave or crevice, and the male will then fertilize them. The eggs will hatch in about two weeks, and the fry will be free-swimming a few days after that.
If you are considering adding an orange convict cichlid to your aquarium, be sure to research this fish carefully to make sure it is a good fit for your tank mates and your water conditions.
6. Pink Convict Cichlid
The Pink Convict Cichlid is a beautiful fish that can be found in many pet stores. This fish is a bright pink color and is a great addition to any aquarium. They are peaceful fish and can be kept with other fish of similar size.
These fish are known to be bottom dwellers and will often stay near the bottom of the tank. They are not very active fish but will swim around when they feel comfortable. These fish do best in an aquarium that has plenty of hiding places and rocks for them to hide under.
7. Marble Convict Cichlid
The Marble Convict Cichlid is a fish that is notable for its striking coloration. The body of the fish is mostly black, but there are patches of white and gray that give it a marble-like appearance. This patterning makes the Marble Convict Cichlid one of the most visually appealing fish in the aquarium hobby.
Despite its appearance, the Marble Convict Cichlid is not a particularly rare fish. It is found throughout much of Africa, where it inhabits a variety of freshwater habitats. It is a popular aquarium fish due to its hardy nature and interesting coloring.
The Marble Convict Cichlid is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of about 4 inches. It is a peaceful species that does well in a community aquarium. It is an omnivorous fish that will eat a variety of foods, including pellets, flakes, and live foods.
8. Kribensis Convict cichlids
Kribensis cichlids are a type of convict cichlid. They are brightly colored fish that is popular in the aquarium trade.
Kribensis cichlids are a relatively easy fish to care for and they are generally peaceful. They can be kept in both fresh and saltwater aquariums, but they prefer warmer water temperatures.
Kribensis cichlids are native to Africa and are found in many different color morphs. The most common color morph is the green kribensis, but they can also be found in blue, red, yellow, and orange.
Kribensis cichlids typically grow to be about 4 inches in length. They have an elongated body shape with a laterally compressed tail. Kribensis cichlids have large eyes and small mouths.
Kribensis cichlids are omnivorous and they will eat a variety of different foods. In the wild, their diet consists of small invertebrates, algae, and plant matter. In the aquarium, they can be fed a variety of different foods including pellets, flakes, live food, and frozen food.
Kribensis cichlids are egg-layers and they typically spawn in caves or rocks. The female kribensis will lay anywhere from 20 to 100 eggs at a time. The eggs will hatch in about 5 days and the fry will be free-swimming in another 7 to 10 days.
Kribensis cichlids are generally peaceful fish, but they can be territorial when it comes to spawning. They are also known to eat their own eggs or fry if given the opportunity. For this reason, it is best to remove the parents from the aquarium after spawning has occurred.
Kribensis cichlids are a popular fish for both beginner and experienced aquarists alike. They are relatively easy to care for and they make a great addition to any freshwater aquarium.
9. Rainbow cichlid Convict cichlids
Rainbow cichlids are a type of convict cichlid. They are so named because of the brightly-colored bands that run along their bodies. These fish are generally peaceful and make good community fish.
They can grow up to six inches in length, and prefer a pH of 6.5 to 7.5 and a water temperature of 72-82 degrees Fahrenheit.
10. Blue acara cichlid
The blue acara cichlid is another type of convict cichlid. These fish are brightly colored, with blue and green bodies and orange fins. They are peaceful fish that do well in community tanks.
They can grow up to six inches in length, and prefer a pH of 6.5 to 7.5 and a water temperature of 72-82 degrees Fahrenheit.
11. Electric blue Convict cichlids
The electric blue convict cichlid is a beautiful fish that makes a great addition to any aquarium. This fish is native to Central America and can be found in the slow-moving waters of the Amazon River and its tributaries.
The electric blue convict cichlid is a popular aquarium fish because it is colorful, easy to care for, and peaceful.
12. Yellowtail Convict cichlids
The Yellowtail Convict cichlid is one of the most popular fish in the convict cichlid family. They are found in the rivers and lakes of South America and can reach a length of up to six inches. They are brightly-colored fish, with a yellow body and black stripes, and are known for their playful nature.
The Yellowtail Convict cichlid is a popular fish for both beginner and experienced aquarists. They are easy to care for and can live in a variety of water conditions. They are active fish and can be kept in a tank with other fish of similar size.
10 Warning Facts About Criminal Cichlids
Cichlids are a type of fish that can be found in many different parts of the world. They are popular for their bright colors and interesting behaviors.
However, not all cichlids are safe to keep in a home aquarium. Some cichlids, known as criminal cichlids, can be dangerous to both fish and people.
Here are ten warning facts about criminal cichlids:
- Criminal cichlids can be very aggressive and territorial. They may attack other fish in the tank, as well as people who try to handle them.
- Criminal cichlids can grow quite large, and they may need a tank with a lot of space.
- Criminal cichlids require a lot of attention and care. They need quality food and clean water to stay healthy.
- Criminal cichlids are prone to disease, so it is important to monitor their health closely.
- Criminal cichlids can be difficult to breed, so it is best not to attempt it unless you are an experienced aquarist.
- Criminal cichlids may release a toxin called osmotoxin if they die or are injured. This toxin can be deadly to other fish in the tank.
- Criminal cichlids should never be released into the wild, as they could disrupt the natural ecology of the area.
- Criminal cichlids are not always easy to identify, so it is important to do your research before buying one.
- Criminal cichlids may be illegal to own in some areas, so please check with your local authorities before buying one.
- Despite their drawbacks, criminal cichlids can make fascinating pets for experienced aquarists.”
Now you know some of the risks associated with keeping criminal cichlids as pets. If you decide to take on the challenge of keeping one, be sure to do your research and be prepared for the care they require.
convict cichlids Fish Habitat and Aquarium Tank Requirements
| Minimum Tank Size | 30 Gallons |
| Tank Water Temperature | 75-82 degrees Fahrenheit |
| Fish Lifespan | 10 years or more |
| Recommended Aquarium Filter | Canister Filter |
| Aquarium Lighting | Full Spectrum LED lighting system |
| pH | Should be between 6.5 and 7.5 |
| GH | Should be between 3 and 10 |
Convict cichlids are freshwater fish that can be found in many different environments, including rivers, lakes, and ponds. They are a popular aquarium fish because they are relatively easy to care for and are very colorful.
In order to create the best possible environment for your convict cichlids, it is important to understand their habitat and aquarium tank requirements.
Aquarium tank setup
Convict cichlids need an aquarium that is at least 20 gallons in size. They prefer a warm water temperature of around 78 degrees Fahrenheit, so an aquarium heater is necessary.
They also need plenty of places to hide, so provide plenty of rocks, caves, and plants in your aquarium.
Convict cichlids are not particularly finicky eaters, but they do need a diet that is high in protein. A good quality flake food or pellet food will provide the nutrients they need.
Water quality
It is important to maintain good water quality in your aquarium to keep your fish healthy and happy.
Convict cichlids are not particularly sensitive to water quality, but they do prefer water that is slightly acidic.
To maintain good water quality, perform a weekly water change of 20-25% and keep the filter clean.
Add Tank Plants
Plants are not necessary for convict cichlids, but they can help to create a more natural environment and provide cover for the fish.
Some good plants for convict cichlids include java fern, hornwort, and anubias. Convicts are known to nibble on plants, so choose plants that are tough and can withstand some abuse.
Provide hiding places
As mentioned before, convict cichlids need plenty of hiding places in their aquarium. This can be achieved by using rocks, caves, or plants.
Convicts are territorial fish, so it is important to provide enough hiding places for each fish. Otherwise, they may become stressed and start fighting with each other.
How many convict cichlids can be kept in a tank?
Convict cichlids are a popular fish for keeping in tanks, and can be kept in groups of up to six individuals. However, it is important to provide plenty of hiding places for them to feel safe, as they can be aggressive towards other fish.
They require a tank that is at least 30 gallons in size and should be fed a diet of both meaty and plant-based foods.
convict cichlid is a tank Mates for fish
Assuming there are several species of convict cichlids in your aquarium tank. Now you want to add another pet fish to them. But you are not sure how the convict cichlids in the same aquarium with other fish will be.
In this part, I’ll explore the tank mates for convict cichlids and find out which fish can live with them in harmony.
Convict cichlids are very territorial fish. They are also known to be aggressive and nippy. So, when choosing the tank mates for your convict cichlids, you need to be very careful. You should avoid any fish that are small or weak.
Some good tank mates for convict cichlids include:
- Larger cichlids such as severums, festivum, and jaguar cichlids.
- Semi-aggressive fish such as rainbowfish, gouramis, and barbs.
- Peaceful fish such as angels, tetras, and rasboras (provided they are in a large enough group).
Some poor tank mates for convict cichlids include:
- Smaller fish such as neon tetras and guppies.
- docile fish such as goldfish and koi.
- Other cichlids such as dwarf cichlids and African cichlids (as they are likely to be seen as rivals).
When choosing the tank mates for your convict cichlids, it is important to remember that they are very territorial fish. They need a lot of space to themselves. So, make sure you have a large enough aquarium to accommodate all of your fish.
convict cichlids Care
You have a few guilty cichlids in your aquarium, but how do you take care of them? Here are a few tips for caring for your guilty cichlid.
1. provide plenty of hiding places
Since convict cichlids are very territorial fish, they need plenty of hiding places in their aquarium. This will help reduce the stress levels and make them feel more comfortable. You can provide hiding places by adding rocks, caves, or plants to your aquarium.
2. feed them a variety of food
Convict cichlids are not fussy eaters and will accept most kinds of food. You can give them live, frozen or dried foods.
Live foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia are a great way to add variety to their diet and they will really enjoy chasing after their food.
Frozen foods such as krill, shrimp, and mysis are also a good option and can be thawed and fed to them on a regular basis.
Dried foods such as pellets and flakes can be given to them as well, but make sure that they are high quality and do not contain fillers or preservatives.
3. keep the water quality high
Since convict cichlids are native to Central and South America, they are used to living in high-quality water. So, you need to make sure the water in your aquarium is clean and well-oxygenated.
You can do this by performing regular water changes and using a good filtration system.
4. provide plenty of space
As I mentioned before, these fish like to move around a lot and need plenty of space to do so. A good rule of thumb is to have at least 30 gallons for each fish.
If you have a smaller tank, you may be able to get away with 20 gallons per fish, but I wouldn’t recommend it.
5. keep them with other peaceful fish
If you want to keep your convict cichlids with other fish, you should choose fish that are peaceful and large.
Some good tank mates for convict cichlids include rainbowfish, gouramis, and barbs. Other cichlids such as dwarf cichlids and African cichlids should be avoided, as they are likely to be seen as rivals.
By following these tips, you can be sure your convict cichlids will be happy and healthy.
The possible disease of convict cichlids
Convict cichlids are known to be susceptible to a few diseases. The most common disease is hole-in-the-head, which is caused by a parasite. This disease can be treated with medication, but it is important to catch it early.
Other common diseases include:
White spot disease
White spot disease is a very common ailment among fish and can be caused by a variety of factors.
It is most commonly caused by a parasite, but can also be the result of poor water quality or malnutrition.
Symptoms of white spot disease include:
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Redness or inflammation around the gills
- White spots on the body and fins. If left untreated, this disease can lead to death.
Ich
Ich, or ichthyophthirius multifiliis, is a very common and highly contagious parasite that affects fish. It can cause severe damage to the fish’s skin and scales and can lead to death if left untreated. Ich is most commonly found in tropical fish but can affect fish of all types.
If you suspect your fish may have ich, it is important to take action right away. There are a number of medications available to treat this parasite, but it is important to consult with a veterinarian before treating your fish.
These are just a few of the diseases that can affect convict cichlids. By taking good care of your fish and providing them with a healthy environment, you can help prevent these diseases from occurring.
convict cichlids species
| Scientific Name | Amatitlania nigrofasciata |
| Common Name | Zebra Cichlids |
| Native Habitat | Central America |
| Maximum Length | 6 inches (15 cm) |
| Stripes Pattern | Unique stripes |
| Diet | Algae, insects, small fish |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Breeding Fish | Yes |
The scientific name of convict cichlids is Amatitlania nigrofasciata. They are also commonly referred to as zebra cichlids. This species is native to Central America and is found in freshwater habitats such as rivers, lakes, and streams.
Convict cichlids are relatively small fish, reaching a maximum length of approximately 6 inches (15 cm). They are characterized by their black and white striped coloration. The stripes of each fish are unique, similar to a human fingerprint.
Convict cichlids are omnivorous, and their diet consists of both plant and animal matter. In the wild, they typically feed on algae, insects, and smaller fish. In captivity, they will accept a variety of commercially available fish foods.
Convict cichlids are generally peaceful fish, and can be kept in a community aquarium with other peaceful species. They are also popular for breeding fish, and many aquarists enjoy watching them care for their young.
convict cichlids Species history
The convict cichlid was first described in 1867 by German zoologist Wilhelm Peters. The fish was originally found in the murky waters of a river in Costa Rica. It wasn’t until many years later that the fish became popular among aquarists.
Convict cichlids are now widely distributed throughout Central America. They have also been introduced to a number of other countries, including the United States, Australia, and Taiwan.
In the wild, convict cichlids typically live for 5-8 years. In captivity, they can live for 10-12 years or longer with proper care.
The convict cichlid is a popular fish among aquarists due to its peaceful nature and attractive coloration. It is also a relatively easy fish to care for, making it a good choice for beginner aquarists.
If you are considering adding convict cichlids to your aquarium, be sure to research the other fish that you might want to include in your tank. Convict cichlids are generally peaceful, but they can be aggressive towards fish with similar coloration.
Choose aquarium mates that are larger in size and have different color patterns. This will help reduce the chances of aggression and ensure that everyone in your tank is happy and healthy.
Breeding Convict Cichlids
The process of breeding convict cichlids is a relatively simple one and can be accomplished with a minimum of equipment.
First, you will need to provide the fish with a suitable breeding environment. This can be done by creating a small tank or pond that is filled with shallow water. The water should be kept at a temperature of around 80 degrees Fahrenheit and should be well-oxygenated.
Once you have created the breeding environment, you will need to stock it with a male and female convict cichlid. The male will display a number of behaviors in order to court the female, including swimming around her in circles and flashing his colors. If the female is interested in mating, she will follow the male.
Once the pair has been established, you can begin to introduce spawning mops, plants, or rocks into the breeding environment. The fish will use these objects to spawn on and will deposit their eggs on them.
After spawning has taken place, you can remove the mops, plants, or rocks from the tank or pond so that the eggs can hatch undisturbed.
The eggs will typically hatch within 48 hours, and the fry will become free-swimming within another week. At this point, they can be fed a diet of small live food such as brine shrimp or bloodworms.
As the fry grows, you can begin to introduce them to a diet of pellets or flakes. Once they reach a size of around 2 inches, they can be moved to a larger tank or pond.
Breeding convict cichlids is a relatively simple process that can provide you with a number of beautiful fish. With a little patience and care, you can successfully rear these fish from fry to adulthood.
5 Reasons You Should Keep convict cichlids in Your Aquarium
Convict cichlids are a great fish for any aquarium. Here are five reasons you should keep them in your tank:
- Convict cichlids are easy to care for.
- They are very active fish and are fun to watch.
- They are very colorful fish and will brighten up any tank.
- They are relatively small fish, so they won’t take up too much space in your tank.
- They are durable fish and can withstand a variety of water conditions.
Now that you know some of the benefits of keeping convict cichlids in your aquarium, be sure to add some to your tank today!
My final opinion on this convict cichlids fish
I have come to the conclusion that convict cichlids fish are not the best choice for a pet. While they may be easy to care for, they can be quite aggressive and territorial.
In addition, they can be quite messy and require a lot of maintenance. If you are looking for a low-maintenance pet, I would recommend another type of fish.
But if you have many desires to keep a convict cichlid, then go ahead and add one to your aquarium today! Thanks for reading.