Convict cichlid

Behaviour and habits

The convict cichlid is hardy, easy to breed and fiercely territorial — the three things it is known for. A pair claims a cave and defends it against everything, especially once there are eggs or fry, and it will see off fish far larger than itself. It is not a community fish for small or timid species; it needs a tank of its own, or huge, tough tankmates, and it will dig and rearrange the substrate to suit itself.

What to feed, and how often

Omnivore: cichlid pellets plus frozen bloodworm, daphnia and the odd vegetable. Feed once or twice a day; breeding pairs benefit from richer, protein-heavy food, which also fuels their aggressive brood care.

Water changes and maintenance

Change 25–30% weekly. Hardy and forgiving of a range of water, but heavy feeding and a messy cichlid mean it needs good filtration and regular changes to keep nitrate low.

Care and how easy it is

Only for a species tank or with large, tough tankmates; never with small or timid fish, and best planned around rather than added to a community.

Common health problems

Robust; fights cause most injuries, and 'hole in the head' can appear in poor water.

If it gets sick

Separate warring fish and treat wounds with clean water, observing until they heal.