Amatitlania nanolutea

Amatitlania nanolutea is found in Pacific-draining rivers of Nicaragua, particularly around the Rio Escalante drainage. It is smaller and generally less aggressive than its close relative the Convict Cichlid, making it more manageable in the aquarium. Both sexes display warm golden-yellow body colouration with faint barring, and breeding females develop a rich orange suffusion on the belly.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 7.0–8.0, moderate hardness (GH 6–18). Tank: 100L minimum; provide rocky caves and hiding spots; sandy or fine gravel substrate. Feeding: Omnivore; accepts a wide range of foods including pellets, flakes, and frozen items. Behaviour: Semi-aggressive; calmer than Convict Cichlid; breeding pairs defend eggs and fry actively. Compatibility: Suitable with other small to mid-sized robust cichlids; avoid very delicate tank mates.