Marble Convict Cichlid

The Marble Convict Cichlid is produced through selective breeding that disrupts the regular vertical banding of Amatitlania nigrofasciata, replacing it with an irregular marbled pattern of black, dark grey, and white. Because the marbling is genetically determined but individually variable, no two Marble Convicts display precisely the same pattern, making each fish a unique specimen.

Beyond the colour variant, the Marble Convict is identical to the standard form in every behavioural and physiological respect. It is hardy, aggressive, and highly prolific — one of the most readily bred cichlid species in captivity. The marble pattern is heritable and reliably passes to offspring when two marble individuals are paired.

The Marble Convict is an excellent choice for cichlid beginners who want an unusual-looking fish combined with the accessibility and easy care of the standard Convict.

Water: 20–28°C, pH 6.5–8.0; extremely tolerant; one of the hardiest aquarium cichlids available. Tank: 120L minimum; caves and hiding places essential for breeding pairs. Feeding: Omnivore; eats virtually anything offered; quality pellets as the base diet. Breeding: Easy to breed; marble pattern breeds true; prolific pair producers. Compatibility: Aggressive when breeding; best as a breeding pair in their own tank or with robust similarsized fish.