Convict Cichlid

Convict Cichlid  barb

Behaviour: Behaviour Territorial, aggressive, pair-forming, plant-eater
Typical size: 10cm 
Max size: 14cm 
Tank Area: Tank Area Middle, bottom
Min Tank Size: 90cm
Temp Min: 20℃ Max: 34℃ 
Feeding: Feeding Flake, frozen, live, vegetable, pellet foods. Provide some plant material
pH Range: pH 6.5-8.5
Hardness: s,m,h,vh

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.

Family Cichlidae (Cichlids) | Synonyms Heros nigrofasciatus, Cichlasoma nigrofasciatum, Astronotus nigrofasciatum | Other names Zebra cichlid | Origin Central America; Tarcoles, Aguan, and Guarumo Rivers | 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 | Natural Habitat Flowing waters of small streams to large rivers, warm pools, rocky areas | Sexing Males are larger with longer and more pointed fins