Cichlid
Care basics
Convicts are tough, easy to breed and full of personality. Pairs raise fry openly, which makes them a classic first breeding cichlid.
They are often sold as community fish, but they are not. A pair will take on fish several times its size. Give them caves and plan for lots of fry.
Quick facts
| Scientific name | Amatitlania nigrofasciata |
|---|---|
| Group | Central America |
| Native to | Pacific and Atlantic slopes from Guatemala to Panama |
| Adult size | Up to about 6 inches, not counting the tail |
| Tank size | A 30 to 40 gallon tank for a pair, larger with tank mates |
| Temperature | 75 to 82 F |
| pH | 6.0 to 8.0 |
| Temperament | Aggressive and territorial, and very violent when breeding. Best kept as a pair in a species tank. |
Figures follow published species profiles such as Seriously Fish, and tank sizes are general guidance. Individual fish and local water vary, so test your water and ask your fish store about the specific fish you buy.
