One of the most ubiquitous and hardy cichlids in the hobby. Named for their black-and-white prison stripe pattern, Convicts are infamous for their intense aggression, especially when breeding (which they do readily). They are intelligent, wet pets that rearrange their tank décor constantly. Best kept in species-only tanks or with other robust Central American cichlids.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
Water Parameters
Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard / Male
The wild-type male. Grows larger than females and may develop a nuchal hump. Highly aggressive.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Black Convict, Zebra
Female
Smaller than the male with distinct orange/gold scales on the lower belly. While smaller, she is equally vicious when guarding eggs or fry.
Differs in 2 traits from base species
Pink / Leucistic
A leucistic color morph (not albino). Lacks the black bars, appearing creamy white or pink. Care and aggression are identical to the Black Convict.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Gold Convict, White Convict, Pink Convict
Short Body / Polar Blue
A hybrid (likely Convict x Blood Parrot) or line-bred mutation resulting in a round, 'jellybean' shape. They are slower swimmers but still aggressive.
Differs in 4 traits from base species
Also known as: Polar Blue Parrot, Balloon Convict, Platinum Parrot
Convict Cichlid Care Summary
The Convict Cichlid, scientifically known as Amatitlania nigrofasciata, belongs to the Cichlids - Central American family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 15 cm and have a compressed body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as aggressive, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a high level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Convict Cichlid requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 75 litres and a tank length of at least 75 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 22°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6.5–8 and a general hardness of 6–20 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred. To replicate their natural habitat, the tank should include sand (sifters), driftwood (digestion/hiding), and smooth gravel (sensitive barbels).
A minimum group size of 1 is recommended. Keepers should be aware that this species may nip the fins of slow-moving or long-finned tankmates, will defend a territory within the tank, and may uproot or eat live plants. This species is available in 4 varieties: Standard / Male, Female, Pink / Leucistic, and Short Body / Polar Blue. Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Similar Species
Jack Dempsey
Rocio octofasciata
A robust, highly territorial Central American cichlid named after the aggressive 1920s boxer, William 'Jack' Dempsey. They exhibit beautiful iridescent blue, green, and gold spangling over a dark background. As aggressive diggers and plant destroyers, they require a tank with sturdy decor. They are best kept as a single wet pet or in a large tank with other similarly sized, robust Central American cichlids.
Texas Cichlid
Herichthys cyanoguttatus
The Texas Cichlid is the only cichlid species native to the United States. Known for their striking pearlescent blue/green spots and extreme territorial behavior, they require large tanks and robust filtration. They are notorious for rearranging aquariums, digging massive pits, and destroying live plants.
Flowerhorn Cichlid
Cichlasoma sp. hybrid
A man-made hybrid cichlid famous for its vibrant colors, extreme interactive personality, and the large nuchal hump (kok) on its head. They are incredibly aggressive 'wet pets' that will attack hands, tank mates, and equipment. They have a massive bioload, dig constantly, and must almost always be kept completely alone.
Guppy
Poecilia reticulata
One of the most iconic and widely kept aquarium fish. Renowned for their incredible colors, hardiness, and prolific breeding. As livebearers, they give birth to fully formed, free-swimming fry. Males constantly pursue females for mating; therefore, a ratio of at least 2 females per male is strongly recommended to disperse stress.
Firemouth Cichlid
Thorichthys meeki
A popular Central American cichlid famous for the bright red coloration on its throat and belly, which it flares to intimidate rivals. They are earth-eaters, constantly sifting sand for food. While territorial, especially during breeding, they are relatively peaceful for a cichlid of their size compared to larger Central American counterparts.
Freshwater Angelfish
Pterophyllum scalare
The most iconic South American Cichlid, known for its distinct arrowhead shape and majestic fins. While domestic strains are hardy, they remain cichlids: they are semi-aggressive predators that will eat any fish small enough to fit in their mouths (like Neon Tetras). They form loose shoals as juveniles but pair off and become territorial as they mature. Height is more important than length for this species.