Yellow Convict Care Guide
Cryptoheros nanoluteus is a dwarf Panamanian cichlid, one of the smallest Central American cichlids, related to the convicts.
Overview
Cryptoheros nanoluteus (Allgayer, 1994) is a dwarf cichlid from Central America, currently also classified under the genus Amatitlania as Amatitlania nanolutea. According to FishBase it occurs on the Atlantic slope in the Guarumo River basin of Panama. It reaches a maximum standard length of about 6.4 cm and is described as one of the smallest Central American cichlids.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Cryptoheros (also placed in Amatitlania)
- Scientific name: Cryptoheros nanoluteus
- Common synonyms: Amatitlania nanolutea
- Described by Allgayer in 1994
Habitat
It is a benthopelagic freshwater species of tropical Panamanian rivers. The convict-cichlid relatives in the genus Amatitlania inhabit freshwater habitats in Central America from El Salvador and Guatemala to Panama.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 120 L
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 7.0-8.0
- GH: 8-18 °dGH
- Lifespan: 6-10 years
Diet
Cryptoheros nanoluteus is an omnivore. In captivity it accepts a varied diet of quality dry foods supplemented with live and frozen items and some vegetable matter, offered around twice daily.
Compatibility
This is a semi-aggressive, mid-water dwarf cichlid that is less belligerent than the typical convict. It suits Central American community tanks with comparable cichlids such as convicts and firemouths, along with robust bottom dwellers like bristlenose plecos. Small tetras and overtly aggressive cichlids should be avoided.
Breeding
It is a cave-spawner and breeds readily in the aquarium, with both parents tending the eggs and fry. Breeding difficulty is regarded as low.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Data Deficient (assessed 1 August 2019 for Amatitlania nanolutea, per FishBase).