CichlidaeFreshwater Fishbeginner

Convict Cichlid Pair

Amatitlania nigrofasciata

Origin: Central America (Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala)

C

Water Parameters

Temperature2030 °C
15 °C35 °C
pH6.58
49
GH (Hardness)520 °dGH
0 °dGH30 °dGH
KH (Alkalinity)212 °dKH
0 °dKH20 °dKH

Quick Stats

Max Size
15 cm
Min Tank
100 L
Lifespan
8–10
Swimming Level
middle
Schooling
No
Diet
omnivore
Temperament
Aggressive especially when breeding; suitable with robust fish

About

Amatitlania nigrofasciata, the Convict Cichlid, is one of the most recommended beginner cichlids — hardy, prolific, and with fascinating breeding behaviour. Its grey body is crossed by vertical black stripes. Females develop an orange-red patch on the belly when breeding. A substrate spawner that defends its territory and fry with remarkable ferocity for its size. Easy to trigger spawning and raise fry. Best kept as a bonded pair in a species or robust community tank.

Care Guide

Pair in 100+ L. Wide pH tolerance (6.5–8.0) and temperature (20–30 °C). Feed cichlid pellets, flake, and frozen foods. Provide caves and flat rocks. Highly aggressive during breeding — avoid keeping with shy or slow fish.

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