Common Name Convict Cichlid, Zebra Cichlid Scientific Name Cichlasoma Nigrofasciatum Origin El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, Guatemala, Costa Rica Adult Size 6 inches Life Span 10 years or longer Sexual Identification Male: Has much longer caudal, pelvic, and dorsal fins and is much larger than his mate. Behavior Convicts are quarrelsome Cichlids that are very intolerable of others. These small Cichlids require ample swimming room, a minimum size aquarium of 55 gallons long, hardy, thick-leaved plants or artificial plants, lots of hiding spaces such as rocks and caves, clay pots, pea sized gravel, floating vegetation, driftwood, hollow trunks or roots. These fish will pair off and may become very territorial while guarding their young. These Cichlids are egg layers and very prolific. Like all Cichlids, they are not recommended for community aquariums. These Cichlids are easy to care for and are perfect for the beginner Cichlid keeper. If you have Convicts and plan on adding other Cichlids of the same size, you will need a 75-gallon or larger tank. Water Environment pH: 7.0-8.5, Temperature: 68-73º F, Water conditions: Frequent water changes are important and a heavy duty filter is needed. Diet Omnivorous: Will take small live foods/fish, vegetable matter such as: algae supplements, lettuce, and frozen or freeze dried foods, pellets. Reproduction Egglayer: Convicts may lay 200 eggs or more. The eggs will be layed on a rock, in caves, or in a pit that is cleared out by both parents. These fish are very good parents and will vigilantly guard their brood. Plant Compatibility Java Moss, Echinordorus, Vallisneria, Cabomba, Anacharis, Hornwort - fine leaved plants are suitable; however, they much more prefer wide leaf plants such as Crypts, Swords, Aponogetons, Anubias, Tiger lotus, banana plants. Tips This Cichlid is very hardy and easy to keep and makes the perfect beginner's Cichlid. This fish is not a picky eater. A large aquarium with frequent water changes is necessary in order to keep this fish healthy and happy.

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