Marble Convict Cichlid Care Guide
The Marble Convict is a selectively bred form of the convict cichlid Amatitlania nigrofasciata, a hardy and prolific Central American cichlid.
Overview
The Marble Convict is a selectively bred colour form of the convict cichlid, Amatitlania nigrofasciata, a small Central American cichlid. Wild fish display 8 or 9 black vertical bars on a blue-grey body; selective breeding has produced leucistic and other strains. Females typically show more intense banding and pink to orange ventral colour.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Amatitlania
- Scientific name: Amatitlania nigrofasciata
- Described: Günther, 1867
Habitat
The convict cichlid occurs on both slopes of Central America, on the Pacific slope from El Salvador to Guatemala and on the Atlantic slope from Honduras to Guatemala. It favours moving water with rocky cover.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 100 L
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 6.8-8.0
- GH: 8-18 °dGH
- Lifespan: 8-10 years
Diet
The convict cichlid is omnivorous, feeding on plants, algae, small fish, crustaceans, insects and worms. In the aquarium it accepts a wide range of prepared and live or frozen foods.
Compatibility
Convict cichlids are highly aggressive and territorial, especially when breeding, displaying through biting, chasing and body-size posturing. They are not plant-safe and are unsuitable with small or peaceful fish; robust tankmates and ample space are required.
Breeding
The convict cichlid is a monogamous cave spawner with strong biparental care. Pairs spawn in caves or crevices, fan the eggs for oxygenation and retrieve fry at night. They breed readily in aquaria with minimal conditioning.