Description
Zebra Convict Cichlid (Amatitlania nigrofasciata – Standard Variant)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Amatitlania nigrofasciata
Common Names: Zebra Convict Cichlid, Convict Cichlid
Family: Cichlidae (Cichlids)
Order: Perciformes
Origin: Central America — rivers and lakes in Guatemala, Honduras, and Costa Rica
Size: Up to 5 inches (12–13 cm) in captivity
Lifespan: 6 – 10 years
Tank Zone: Mid to bottom dweller; territorial and semi-aggressive
🌊 Water Parameters
TDS: 100 – 300 ppm
pH: 6.5 – 7.5
Temperature: 24 – 28°C (75 – 82°F)
Hardness: 8 – 15 dGH
🐟 Characteristics
Body: Slender, laterally compressed body with distinct black vertical stripes on a grayish-silver base; classic “zebra” appearance.
Behavior: Aggressive and territorial, particularly during breeding.
Swimming Style: Active swimmer; patrolling and defending territory.
Unique Feature: Hardy and prolific breeder; exhibits strong parental care.
Nature: Intelligent and interactive; guards eggs and fry vigorously.
🍽️ Food
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: High-quality cichlid pellets, live/frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp), and occasional vegetables.
Feeding: Twice daily in small portions.
Tip: Protein-rich diet enhances growth, coloration, and breeding success.
🛠️ Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons (114 L) for a pair; larger tanks for multiple specimens.
Filtration: Strong filtration recommended; moderate bioload.
Decor: Rocks, caves, and clay pots to establish territories; open swimming areas essential.
Lighting: Moderate; highlights natural stripes.
Water Change: 25% weekly to maintain clean and stable water conditions.
👥 Social Behavior
Minimum Group Size: Best kept in pairs or harems; aggressive towards tankmates if space is limited.
Tank Mates: Robust fish of similar size; avoid small, passive species.
Avoid: Small or slow-moving fish — likely to be harassed or eaten.
✅ Do’s
Provide plenty of hiding places and territories.
Feed a varied, protein-rich diet.
Maintain stable water parameters and filtration.
Keep in appropriately sized tank to reduce aggression.
❌ Don’ts
Don’t house with very small or delicate fish.
Don’t overcrowd the tank.
Don’t ignore regular water changes and filtration needs.
⭐ Quick Tips
The Zebra Convict Cichlid is the classic, hardy variant of the convict cichlid family, admired for its distinct black stripes and strong parental instincts.
It thrives in well-structured aquariums with caves and rocks, making it ideal for intermediate aquarists who want an active, territorial freshwater cichlid.
Perfect for aquarists seeking a prolific and visually striking species.
