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.
Convict Cichlid At a Glance
Convict Cichlid Tank Requirements
Will Convict Cichlid fit in your tank?
Care guides tell you what Convict Cichlid needs, the next question is whether your tank can safely provide it. Test Convict Cichlid against your tank size, maintenance needs, and the fish you already keep before you buy.
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Convict Cichlid Water Parameters
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Convict Cichlid Temperament & Compatibility
Convict Cichlid 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 Guide 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.
Due to its specialist needs, the Convict Cichlid is best suited for fishkeepers who can provide a carefully planned setup. 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.
Convict Cichlid Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Convict Cichlid, a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the mid-level and bottom zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include a sand substrate to accommodate their sifting behaviour, smooth gravel or rounded substrate to protect their sensitive barbels, and driftwood, which can serve as both a hiding place and a dietary supplement. Keepers should note that expect substrate disturbance, so lightweight décor should be secured and live planted layouts may be difficult to maintain, as this species tends to uproot or consume vegetation.
Convict Cichlid Compatibility Notes
Classified as aggressive, the Convict Cichlid is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, avoid housing with slow-moving or long-finned species that may become targets for fin nipping and territorial behaviour may cause issues if hiding spots or floor space are limited. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the mid-level and bottom zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Convict Cichlid Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Convict Cichlid.
20 Gallon Long
29 Gallon Standard
30 Gallon Breeder
36 Gallon Bowfront
40 Gallon Breeder
55 Gallon Standard
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Frequently Asked Questions About Convict Cichlid
How big does Convict Cichlid get?
Convict Cichlid (Amatitlania nigrofasciata) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 15 cm. They have a compressed body shape and a moderate growth rate.
What tank size does Convict Cichlid need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 75 litres and a tank length of at least 75 cm are recommended for Convict Cichlid. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Convict Cichlid need?
Convict Cichlid thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 22–28°C, a pH between 6.5 and 8, and a general hardness of 6–20 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Is Convict Cichlid peaceful or aggressive?
Convict Cichlid is classified as aggressive with an aggression score of 8 out of 10. Careful tankmate selection is essential to avoid conflict.
Can Convict Cichlid live alone?
Yes, Convict Cichlid can be kept singly or in a group. They are flexible and adapt well to both setups.
Does Convict Cichlid have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Convict Cichlid benefits from sand (sifters), driftwood (digestion/hiding), and smooth gravel (sensitive barbels) in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Plants That Suit Convict Cichlid
These plants pair well with Convict Cichlid based on shared water preferences, layout fit, and how likely they are to hold up in the same aquarium.
Afzel's Anubias
Anubias afzelii
Anubias Barteri
Anubias barteri
Belinda's Buce
Bucephalandra belindae
Buce Motleyana
Bucephalandra motleyana
Congo Anubias
Anubias heterophylla
Dwarf Buce
Bucephalandra pygmaea
Fish Similar to Convict Cichlid
Honduran Red Point
Amatitlania sp. 'Honduran Red Point'
A beautiful, smaller relative of the Convict Cichlid. They boast an iridescent blue and purple body with red or orange fins. While significantly more peaceful than true Convicts, they are still Central American cichlids and become highly territorial when breeding. They love to dig, rearrange sand, and claim caves.
Cutteri Cichlid
Amatitlania cutteri
A stunning, robust Central American cichlid known for its striking blue eyes, vertical barring, and metallic sheen. While generally considered less aggressive than its close cousin the Convict Cichlid, it is highly territorial during breeding. They form monogamous pairs and are excellent, albeit fierce, parents that will actively dig out spawning pits.
Black Belt Cichlid
Vieja maculicauda
A large, powerful, and strikingly colored Central American cichlid known for the distinctive vertical black band across its midsection and vivid red flushing on its throat and tail. They are highly territorial, aggressive, and notorious for re-arranging the aquarium. They are primarily herbivorous in the wild but will eat almost anything, including smaller fish. They cannot be kept in planted tanks.
Zebra Tilapia
Heterotilapia buttikoferi
A large, highly intelligent riverine cichlid from West Africa renowned for its bold black and white vertical stripes. However, it is also infamous for its extreme, often lethal aggression. Adults are usually completely intolerant of tank mates (including conspecifics) and will heavily rearrange decor, destroy plants, and smash heaters. It is highly recommended to keep them as a solitary 'wet pet'.
Checkerboard Cichlid
Dicrossus filamentosus
A striking, slender South American dwarf cichlid known for its distinct black checkerboard pattern along its flanks. Unlike many cichlids, they are exceptionally peaceful community fish. They are strict blackwater species, requiring very soft, acidic water, sand substrate, and leaf litter to thrive.
Blue Tilapia
Oreochromis aureus
A robust, large-growing African cichlid famous for its hardiness, high growth rate, and commercial value. In the aquarium, they are highly active, extremely messy, and will systematically destroy any live plants or intricate hardscape by digging massive crater nests. They are highly adaptable to various water conditions, including brackish water.