Convict Cichlid
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| Common name | Convict cichlid, Zebra cichlid |
| Scientific name | Cryptoheros nigrofasciatus |
| Synonyms | Archocentrus nigrofasciatus, Cichlasoma nigrofasciatum, Heros nigrofasciatus (all non-valid) |
| Size | Up to 6" (15cm), females smaller |
| Origin | Central America |
| Tank setup | A fairly large tank with rocks and wood for cover,
and some open space. |
| Compatibility | Aggressive, large robust tankmates only. |
| Temperature | 20-25oC (68-77oF) |
| Water chemistry | Not critical - pH 6.5-8.0, medium hard |
| Feeding | Omnivorous: Pellet, granular or flake foods along with frozen/live foods, plus a vegetable component. |
| Sexing | Males are noticeably larger and have longer fins, they also develop
a fatty lump on the forehead as they mature. |
| Breeding | Pairs spawn readily after selecting and cleaning a suitable site.
The eggs and fry will be guarded by the parents. |
| Comments |
This can be a belligerent fish, and is not suitable for the general community tank. It should
only be kept with equally robust species, or in a species tank. Only tough plants should be
included in the tank.
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