The Convict Cichlid (Cichlasom nigrofascium) is one of the most common fish in the aquaria trade today. They are part of wide-ranging genus, Cichlasoma. The are found n Black Striped, Albino, and Gold Marbled coloration. They can reach 5 inches long and require 29 gallons. They also need a heater, as they hail from the steamy Amazon jungle. They will eat most foods put in the tank, from processed foods to meaty foods, from shrimp to worms to fish. They are very active and while they may mate and be social they are aggressive and need space. They should not be kept with small or sensitive fish such as Livebearers or Glass Catfish. They prefer to have driftwood or plants to hide under.
They may suffer in cool teperatures because, unlike some species, they do not acclimate well to enironments other than that of the Amazon River. They are very intelligent, like most Cichlids, and can recognize the owner like a dog if given correct living coditions. Convicts readily spawn and lay eggs inside caves. They defend their nests, eggs, and fry viciously. They may hybridize with Firemouths (C.Meeki) or natve Texas Cichld. They must have deep water, as they inhabit the deeper portions of the rio Amazon. Like most tropical Fish, they require weekly water changes, or more if they are temporarly (quarentine, transport) in a small container. They should only have a small amount of gravel, as they are messy but should have some gravel, because, like most Cichlids, they enjoy "playing" with gravel and digging holes, pushing it around, making piles, etc etc.
In conclusion, this often overlooked fish is great fish worthy of true "pet" status if treated correctly. If you have a spare 30 gallons, this fish should be in your top 3 choices.
They may suffer in cool teperatures because, unlike some species, they do not acclimate well to enironments other than that of the Amazon River. They are very intelligent, like most Cichlids, and can recognize the owner like a dog if given correct living coditions. Convicts readily spawn and lay eggs inside caves. They defend their nests, eggs, and fry viciously. They may hybridize with Firemouths (C.Meeki) or natve Texas Cichld. They must have deep water, as they inhabit the deeper portions of the rio Amazon. Like most tropical Fish, they require weekly water changes, or more if they are temporarly (quarentine, transport) in a small container. They should only have a small amount of gravel, as they are messy but should have some gravel, because, like most Cichlids, they enjoy "playing" with gravel and digging holes, pushing it around, making piles, etc etc.
In conclusion, this often overlooked fish is great fish worthy of true "pet" status if treated correctly. If you have a spare 30 gallons, this fish should be in your top 3 choices.
