Yellow Convict
Cryptoheros nanoluteus
A stunning and relatively peaceful dwarf Central American cichlid. Unlike the common Convict Cichlid, the Yellow Convict has a vibrant golden-yellow body with a blue/green sheen. While generally suitable for robust community tanks, they become highly territorial when spawning and will dig pits in the substrate to protect their fry.
Yellow Convict At a Glance
Yellow Convict Tank Requirements
Will Yellow Convict fit in your tank?
Care guides tell you what Yellow Convict needs, the next question is whether your tank can safely provide it. Test Yellow Convict against your tank size, maintenance needs, and the fish you already keep before you buy.
Yellow Convict Water Parameters
Yellow Convict Temperament & Compatibility
Yellow Convict Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Male
Males are larger, develop longer extensions on their dorsal and anal fins, and have a more prominent green/blue sheen. They can be aggressive towards other males of the same species. Best kept as a single male per tank or paired with a female.
Differs in 2 traits from base species
Also known as: Standard, Male Yellow Convict
Female
Females are slightly smaller and are easily distinguished by a characteristic dark, metallic spot (ocellus) on their dorsal fin. They take the initiative in courtship and are generally less aggressive than males outside of the breeding period.
Differs in 2 traits from base species
Also known as: Female Yellow Convict
Yellow Convict Care Guide Summary
The Yellow Convict, scientifically known as Cryptoheros nanoluteus, belongs to the Cichlids - Central American family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 10 cm and have a compressed body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as semi-aggressive, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a medium level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Yellow Convict requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 80 litres and a tank length of at least 80 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 23°C and 27°C, with a pH range of 6.5–8 and a general hardness of 5–16 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
The Yellow Convict is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. This species is available in 2 varieties: Male and Female. 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.
Yellow Convict Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Yellow Convict, 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. Keepers should note that expect substrate disturbance, so lightweight décor should be secured.
Yellow Convict Compatibility Notes
Classified as semi-aggressive, the Yellow Convict is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, conspecific aggression can be intense, especially in smaller tanks 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.
Who Yellow Convict Is Actually For
Yellow Convict is best for a fishkeeper who wants a species that can settle into a calmer community setup and can provide someone who understands its individual space requirements. It makes the most sense for a hobbyist who will actually build around its needs, especially sand.
The most common mistake is treating Yellow Convict like any other community fish and skipping the soft sand it needs to forage safely. Another frequent problem is forcing it into an over-busy community when it would do better with more room or more deliberate tankmate choices.
Yellow Convict Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Yellow Convict.
30 Gallon Breeder
40 Gallon Breeder
55 Gallon Standard
60 Gallon Breeder
75 Gallon Standard
90 Gallon Standard
Show 12 more tank sizes
Frequently Asked Questions About Yellow Convict
How big does Yellow Convict get?
Yellow Convict (Cryptoheros nanoluteus) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 10 cm. They have a compressed body shape and a moderate growth rate.
What tank size does Yellow Convict need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 80 litres and a tank length of at least 80 cm are recommended for Yellow Convict. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Yellow Convict need?
Yellow Convict thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 23–27°C, a pH between 6.5 and 8, and a general hardness of 5–16 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Is Yellow Convict peaceful or aggressive?
Yellow Convict is classified as semi-aggressive with an aggression score of 5 out of 10. They can work in community setups but may clash with certain tankmates.
Can Yellow Convict live alone?
Yes, Yellow Convict can be kept singly or in a group. They are flexible and adapt well to both setups.
Does Yellow Convict have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Yellow Convict benefits from sand (sifters) in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Useful setup supplies
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Guidarium Editorial Desk
Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.
- Last reviewed
- May 11, 2026
- Last updated
- May 11, 2026
- Issues or corrections?
- Contact the editorial team
Plants That Suit Yellow Convict
These plants pair well with Yellow Convict 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
Christmas Moss
Vesicularia montagnei
Congo Anubias
Anubias heterophylla
Fish Similar to Yellow Convict
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.
Convict Cichlid
Amatitlania nigrofasciata
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.
Rainbow Cichlid
Herotilapia multispinosa
Widely regarded as one of the most peaceful and beginner-friendly Central American cichlids. They are known for their vibrant gold, orange, and black coloration which intensifies during breeding. In the wild, they inhabit muddy, slow-moving waters and have specialized teeth for grazing on algae. While peaceful for a cichlid, they become aggressively territorial when spawning and their herbivorous diet means they will happily consume soft-leaved aquarium plants.
Pastel Cichlid
Cribroheros alfari
A strikingly beautiful Central American cichlid known for its pastel yellow, pink, and blue iridescent coloration. It is a substrate-sifting species that loves to dig in sand. Like many Central American cichlids, it can be highly territorial and aggressive, especially during breeding. Requires robust filtration and spacious quarters.
Yellow Sand Cichlid
Xenotilapia bathyphilus
An elegant, bottom-dwelling cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika. They are highly specialized 'sand-sifters' that take mouthfuls of sand to filter out small invertebrates. They are relatively peaceful for African cichlids but can be territorial during breeding. They are highly skittish and do best in small shoals. A fine sand substrate is absolutely mandatory for their survival and natural behavior.
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.