Orinoco Checkerboard Cichlid

Dicrossus sp. 'Orinoco' is an undescribed checkerboard cichlid from the Orinoco River basin of Venezuela and Colombia that is distinct from the more commonly encountered D. filamentosus and D. maculatus. Its most notable feature is a more strongly contrasted checkerboard body pattern — alternating dark and pale lateral scales forming a vivid grid — combined with the genus' characteristic filamentous caudal fin extensions in males.

Like all Dicrossus, this form is a demanding species requiring ultra-soft, highly acidic blackwater conditions. It is a secretive, relatively small cichlid that spends most of its time near the substrate among leaf litter and fine-leaved plants.

Dicrossus sp. 'Orinoco' is primarily a specialist's fish — its care demands, rarity, and the challenge of breeding it make it most suitable for experienced softwater cichlid keepers.

Water: Ultra-soft, acidic — pH 4.5–6.5, temperature 25–29°C, very low conductivity. Tank: 60 L with leaf litter, fine plants, driftwood, and blackwater conditioning. Feeding: Small live invertebrates; micro-worms, Artemia nauplii, Daphnia; reluctant to accept dry food. Breeding: Cave spawner; female guards; blackwater essential for egg development. Compatibility: Only the finest, most peaceful micro dither fish; best in species tank.