The Convict Cichlid Amatitlania
nigrofasciata (previously Archocentrus
nigrofasciatus and Cichlosoma nigrofasciatum), a.k.a.
the Zebra Cichlid, is a hardy fish with a pugnacious attitude. Their name,
Convict Cichlid, originates from the broad, dark vertical lines running down
their body, making them similar in apperance to the traditional
"jailbird" outfit. When mature, they reach a maximum size of
about 5-6" (13-15 cm) which makes them one of the smaller Central American
cichlids. The male Convict will be larger than the female, but the females
will be more colorful. There are also several color varieties being bred. The
popular pseudo-albino forms are known as the Pink Convict Cichlid or White
Convict Cichlid.
Convict Cichlids have a
tendency towards unusually aggressive and spunky behaviors for a fish their
size. For example, they are known for their tendency to attack almost any other
fish in their territory, including fish up to three times their size! They are
great in a tank with other aggressive fish, just make sure the other fish are
not so big that they can swallow your Convict Cichlid whole
Convict Cichlid -
Quick Aquarium Care
·
Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner
·
Size of fish - inches: 6.0 inches (15.24 cm)
·
Minimum Tank Size: 20 gal (76 L)
·
Temperament: Aggressive
·
Aquarium Hardiness: Very Hardy
·
Temperature: 74.0 to 82.0° F (23.3
to 27.8° C)
·
Size of fish - inches: 6.0 inches (15.24 cm)
- Male Convict Cichlids grow to a length of 5 - 6" (13 -15 cm), with
females reaching 3 - 4" (8 -10 cm).
·
Lifespan: 10 years
·
Aquarium Hardiness: Very Hardy
·
Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner
·
Diet Type: Omnivore
·
Flake Food: Yes
·
Tablet / Pellet: Yes