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Species Profiles -> Cichlids -> Convict Cichlid

Convict Cichlid ("Cichlasoma" nigrofasciatum)

Synonyms: Zebra Cichlid
Stats: Adult Size: 5" (12.5 cm)
Temp: 75-81 F (24-27 C)
Tank: 24" (60 cm) minimum
Requirements: Flowerpot cave and plants appreciated. Tank of at least 20 gallons.
Diet: Anything. Will take flake, live, frozen, or pellet. Very undemanding.
Breeding: Easy, they breed extremely readily. Can start with a group to get a pair, or watch closely at the store, often they have paired already. Females often have shiny pink or blue patches on their sides, and males do not. Care of fry is easy, will quickly grow to eat anything.
Sociability: Beware. In a community tank this fish can be very aggressive, especially if breeding. Pairs can bully tankmates to death protecting their brood.
Related Spec: Available in a "Pink" variety.
Special Info: Thsi fish is called the guppy of cichlids. It has been said to breed all this fish needs is a puddle and a little time.

 

 

Images (Click to enlarge)

Pink Convict Cichlid
Pink Convict Cichlids
Image provided by Amy Harrand

Striped Convict Cichlid
Marble Convict Cichlid
Images provided by ber yang