Convict Cichlid

Name

This black - striped fish is known down under as the one and only Amatitlania nigrofasciata. Cool name, right? We think so as well!

And what’s even cooler is maybe the fact that he can answer to the name of Zebra Cichlid as well —many also know him better that way. He’s quite the popular aquarium fish. Don’t be surprised to discover your next - door neighbors already own one (or heck, you might even see these in abundance at your local public aquarium or zoo).

Origin

This amazing creature comes from Central America (or, anyways, that’s where it was first discovered, at least). “Cichlidae” is the species it rightfully belongs to, and there’s a large family of these types of fish out there in the world today.

It (and its many relatives) sure knows how to re - produce in mass quantity and re - populate, not to mention quickly. And you may have wondered where countless studies on fish behavior have come from…well, wonder no more, as the interest of many experts in this particular fish species alone is what has prompted such debate and analysis.

Diet

This fish lives on a good diet of omnivorous taste : You can easily feed it most kinds of frozen foods, as well as anything prepared in advance, within reason.

Consider dropping a few freeze - dried bloodworms into its tank, and it will likely thank you and ask for more (after viciously devouring such a scrumptious meal).

Cichlid pellets, if I might also add, are another delectable treat it enjoys — if it’s especially hungry, it’ll gobble these up in a matter of seconds (but don’t drop in too many at once, as they might remain in the tank and decompose in the water).

Good ‘Roommates’

Its roommates can be, ideally, no one who enters their sacred grounds as these fish are unspeakably territorial like few others out there can be. They do not appreciate ‘new’ fish entering their tank, especially those who like to swim in their favorite hot spots — they will act out with some aggression to protect their land (as if they fought for it, in the first place).

These fish are often considered, for that very reason, the “last pick” for the team when it comes to filling up a ‘community tank’. Only place them with larger fish, who do not fear them.

Other Facts to Keep in Mind

The Convict Cichlid is quite an easy fish to breed and also makes for an excellent, protective parent to its young : Many, on the other hand, simply refuse to breed at all when placed in contained home aquariums.

When breeding in the wild, the females of this species will use the insides of caves or even small rocks (whatever good place they can find, with some decent closure and warmth) to lay their eggs. Small flower pots, flat stones, etc. —- get creative as these work inside your own home breeder tank ; it emulates the effect. Buy yourself some Convict Cichlids today!