Convict Cichlid

The Convict Cichlid is a hardy, feisty freshwater fish named for the black vertical stripes resembling old-fashioned prison uniforms against their bluish-gray bodies. Native to Central America, these cichlids are incredibly hardy and easy to breed, making them popular for beginners to cichlid keeping. However, their aggressive nature and strong parental instincts make them unsuitable for community tanks. Convicts are fascinating to observe, especially when breeding, as they exhibit complex parental care behaviors. They are best kept in species-only tanks or with other robust, similarly sized cichlids.

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Convict Cichlids need territory and hiding spots:

• Minimum 30 gallons for a pair (40+ recommended)
• Larger tanks needed for groups - 55+ gallons
• Caves, driftwood, and rock formations for territories
• Terracotta pots or flat rocks for spawning
• Moderate to strong filter flow
• Heater to maintain 74-82°F
• Plants: Hardy varieties (Java Fern, Anubias) or expect them to be dug up
• Tight-fitting lid - they can jump when protecting territory

Important: They are diggers and rearrange decorations. Secure all rockwork to prevent crushing.

Water Quality

• Temperature: 74-82°F (23-28°C)
• pH: 6.5-8.0 (adaptable to wide range)
• Water Hardness: Hard (10-25 dGH)
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <30 ppm (tolerate higher than many fish)

Maintenance:

• Weekly 25% water changes
• They are quite hardy and adaptable
• Can tolerate various water conditions
• Strong filtration needed for their messy habits

Feeding

Convict Cichlids are omnivores and not picky:

• High-quality cichlid pellets or flakes
• Frozen foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, Mysis
• Live foods: occasional treats (earthworms, crickets)
• Vegetable matter: spirulina, blanched vegetables

Feeding Schedule: 2 times daily. They are enthusiastic eaters.

Note: They are not picky and will eat almost anything offered.

Behavior & Compatibility

Convict Cichlids are highly aggressive, especially when breeding:

• Good Tank Mates (with caution):

  • Other Convict Cichlids (as bonded pairs)
  • Large, robust cichlids (Jack Dempsey, Oscar, Green Terror)
  • Similar-sized aggressive fish

• NEVER House With:

  • Small fish (will be killed or eaten)
  • Peaceful community fish
  • Tetras, Guppies, Corydoras (will be slaughtered)
  • Slow-moving fish
  • Most other fish species

Aggression: They are among the most aggressive cichlids for their size. A breeding pair will terrorize tanks up to 40 gallons.

Breeding

Convicts are prolific and easy breeders:

• Egg layers: Deposit eggs on flat rocks, pots, or tank glass
• Both parents care for eggs and fry
• Extremely protective: Will attack anything near the nest
• Frequent spawners: Can breed monthly
• Fry survival: High with parental care

Warning: Breeding pairs become hyper-aggressive. Be prepared to separate or provide massive tanks.

Territory

Convicts are highly territorial:

• Establish and defend territories vigorously
• Dig pits and rearrange decorations
• Will dominate entire small tanks
• Need space to establish separate territories if keeping multiple pairs

Health Considerations

Convicts are generally very hardy:

• Ich: Quarantine new fish
• Fin damage: From fighting
• Bloat: From overeating or poor diet

Prevention: Maintain good water quality, provide proper diet, and ensure adequate space to minimize fighting.