Our recommended minimum tank size for convict cichlids is 30 gallons. The next couple of sections will cover the basics of setting up a suitable habitat for them so they’ll be healthy and not tempted to rumble all the time. However, things get a bit trickier when you start thinking about planning how they’ll get along with other fish. When it comes to their recommended tank and water requirements, these fish aren’t that challenging. Proper convict cichlid care requires you to have an understanding of the behavior and temperament of these fish. It’s worth noting that makes tend to be larger than females, but you won’t be able to identify their gender until they’re adults. The advantage of this is it means you can keep them in smaller tanks than other species as well.Ĭonvict cichlids have a fairly normal growth rate, so there are no special accommodations you’ll need to make in that department. These fish are rather small compared to other cichlid species. The average convict cichlid size is around 4-5 inches when fully grown. Their caudal fin is shaped a bit like a symmetrical shell which helps them generate power and have well-rounded mobility in the water. None of the coloring or stripes make their way onto this fin, unlike the dorsal fin. Their caudal fin is partially transparent and average in size. This causes a neat visual effect when they swim and makes it quite fun to watch them. Their anal fins begin at the midpoint of their body and stop at the beginning of the caudal peduncle.īoth their dorsal and anal fins dangle back a bit like a sail. Usually, their black stripes will continue into the dorsal fin a bit too.Ĭonvict cichlids have average-sized ventral and pectoral fins that are fairly see-through.
The dorsal fin continues to the start of their caudal peduncle and is semi-transparent. These fish have a long dorsal fin that starts about a fourth of the way back from their mouth (this point is where their pectoral fins begin as well). They actually look pretty much like African cichlids but with a different color and pattern. Some buyers think they’re getting a different color convict cichlid when in fact it’s just the tank lighting playing tricks on them!Ĭonvict cichlids have the classic cichlid body. The hue of this color can vary slightly, but it’s usually rather consistent. While the bars that cover the body of convict cichlids are black, the rest of the body is a greyish-blue. The bars are one of the most important things that sellers look for with these fish, so if you’re making a purchase from a reputable party the fish you buy will likely have plenty of well-defined stripes. These fish usually have around eight of these bars, but this number can be slightly higher or lower depending on genetic components. The coloration can vary based on age, gender, and type, but we’ll speak to the standard convict cichlid variation that most people know about.
#RED ZEBRA CICHLID TANK SIZE SERIES#
AppearanceĬonvict cichlids get their name from the series of black vertical bars that run down their bodies. Purchasing from reputable sellers is an easy way to avoid this. If these fish are bred and raised by a subpar breeder, this could hinder their ability to live a long and healthy life. Always do your homework about what’s needed before purchasing one!Īuthor Note: Another factor that can influence the lifespan of convict cichlids is their genetics. If you fail to care for these fish properly and keep them in an unsuitable environment, it’s unlikely that they’ll reach eight years. There have been plenty of instances where these fish have exceeded this range, but that’s the average assuming proper care is given. The average convict cichlid lifespan is roughly 8 to 10 years. This has led to some concern of overfishing/capturing, but so far the population hasn’t been impacted outside of normal levels of fluctuation. This is not a natural occurrence and is only sustainable due to the similar conditions that certain parts of the country offer.īecause of their appealing look, convict cichlids have been sought after in the aquarium scene for many years. Convict cichlids are omnivores and aren’t picky when it comes to finding food!Īn interesting note is that this species can be found in Australia as well. Their natural habitat has plenty of wood and rocks for them to use as a place to hide in between feeding. These fish come from lakes and streams in this region with a moderate amount of current. Their different types can be found in countries all along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts such as Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras.
Convict cichlids ( Amatitlania nigrofasciata) are a freshwater species of cichlid that come from Central America.
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