Think Fish - The Tropical Fish Keeping Resource

Fish Database: Convict Cichlid - Archocentrus nigrofasciatus

Aquarium requirements

Aquarium suitability: 4/5
Sociability rating: 5/10
Area of tank: Middle, bottom
Aquarium water conditions: 6.5-8.5, s,m,h,vh
Temperature: 20 - 34C
Feeding: Flake, frozen, live, vegetable, pellet foods. Provide some plant material
Minimum tank size: 90cm
Min / Max number in tank:

Fish fact file

Family: Cichlidae (Cichlids)
Synonyms: Heros nigrofasciatus, Cichlasoma nigrofasciatum, Astronotus nigrofasciatum
Other common names: Zebra cichlid
Origin: Central America; Tarcoles, Aguan, and Guarumo Rivers
Natural habitat: Flowing waters of small streams to large rivers, warm pools, rocky areas
Size: 10cm
Behavior: Territorial, aggressive, pair-forming, plant-eater
Breeding: Egglayers, cavespawners, parents build nests and guard the eggs and young. Eggs are laid on cleaned surfaces, normally rocks and transferred to dugout pits. Breeds very easily with a high survival rate.
Natural water conditions: pH 7-8, soft to hard
Sexing: Males are larger with longer and more pointed fins

Fish code No.1102

Recently Viewed fish: Convict Cichlid

The Convict Cichlid is always easy to obtain because its ease of breeding ensures a continual supply to the trade both from commercial and private sources. Although they have a strong initial appeal they can be quite troublesome being variably aggressive and territorial, a plant eater, and excellent reproducer. Despite this the Convict Cichlid does make a good aquarium fish and is very tough, adaptable and full of character. The fish enjoys warm water, and is sometimes found living in hot springs, and will benefit from some plant material in its diet. Not recommended for beginners.

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