Convict Cichlid

The convict cichlid is one of the most common species of cichlid. Because of their distinct appearance and simple care requirements, they’re a popular choice among freshwater aquarists.

We love these fish and recommend them to anyone wishing to progress into intermediate terrain. 

While convict cichlids are not an “expert-only” species, there are a few things you should know as an owner (namely their potential for aggression).

Convict cichlids (Amatitlania nigrofasciata) are freshwater cichlid species native to Central America. Their various varieties can be found in countries along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, including Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras.

These fish are found in lakes and streams with moderate movement in this area. Their native habitat provides plenty of timber and rocks for them to hide in between feedings. 

Convict cichlids are omnivores who aren’t choosy about where they get their food from!

This species is also found in Australia. This is not a natural occurrence and can only be sustained because of the identical conditions found in some sections of the country.

Convict cichlids have long been sought after in the aquarium sector due to their appealing appearance. This has raised some concerns about overfishing/capturing, however, the population has not been damaged beyond typical levels of fluctuation.

II. You would love the fish because…

Convict cichlids are named after the black vertical bars that run down their body. Coloration can vary depending on age, gender, and kind, however, we’ll focus on the most common convict cichlid variant.

These fish typically have eight of these bars, but the number can vary significantly depending on hereditary factors. The bars are one of the most essential features that sellers seek in these fish, so if you buy from a trustworthy vendor, the fish you acquire will most likely have plenty of well-defined stripes.

The bars that cover the bodies of convict cichlids are black, whereas the rest of their bodies have a greyish-blue color. This color’s hue can fluctuate slightly, but it’s normally rather stable. Some consumers believe they are receiving a different color convict cichlid when, in fact, the tank lighting is playing tricks on them!

Convict cichlids have a typical cichlid body. They are similar to African cichlids but have different colors and patterns.

This fish has a long dorsal fin that begins about a quarter of the way back from its mouth (this point is where its pectoral fins begin as well). The dorsal fin is semi-transparent and extends to the beginning of the caudal peduncle. Their black stripes usually extend towards the dorsal fin as well.

Convict cichlids have medium-sized, see-through ventral and pectoral fins. Their anal fins start at the midline of their body and end at the caudal peduncle.

Their dorsal and anal fins dangle back like sails. This creates an interesting visual effect while they swim and makes it enjoyable to watch them.

Their caudal fin is semi-transparent and of ordinary size. Unlike the dorsal fin, none of the colors or stripes make it onto this fin. Their caudal fin is structured like a symmetrical shell, which aids in power generation and well-rounded motion in the water.

III. Is this fish species peaceful or hostile?

The Convict Cichlid is an aggressive Central American cichlid.

IV. Species compatibility

Despite their reputation as aggressive freshwater fish, you do have several possibilities for convict cichlid tank mates.

However, it is crucial to note that this is not the most secure solution.

Keep them alone if you don’t want even the faintest risk of a fight or violent behavior in your aquarium. Even if you mix them with suggested species, this fish poses a considerable risk in community tanks.

Two popular options are a single convict cichlid or a male and female combination. The more you add, the more likely territorial and aggressive behavior.

Also, never put a male and a female in the same community tank! This will greatly increase hostility and territorial behavior, almost certainly resulting in someone being hurt.

Other species that could be prison cichlid tank mates include:

Pictus catfish, Oscar fish, Jack Dempsey fish, Clown loach, Silver dollar loach

V. How to feed this species?

The best diet for incarcerated cichlids is a combination of pellets or flakes and live food. This will guarantee that they get enough variety and nourishment to stay healthy. Brine shrimp and bloodworms are two of our favorite live foods to offer them.