Convict Cichlid Care Guide
The Convict Cichlid (Amatitlania nigrofasciata) is a hardy and highly popular freshwater fish among UK aquarists. Known for its bold black vertical stripes and strong personality, it's often recommended as one of the easiest cichlids to keep and breed.
In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about Convict Cichlid care, including tank size, water conditions, compatibility, breeding, and typical UK prices - plus how to buy or sell them locally.
Quick facts about Convict Cichlids
Convict cichlids are medium-sized Central American cichlids known for their striking striped appearance, which resembles old-fashioned prison uniforms - giving them their common name.
They are extremely hardy, territorial, and prolific breeders.
Amatitlania nigrofasciata
10-15 cm
Central America (Honduras, Costa Rica, Guatemala)
100L (26gal)
8-10 years
Aggressive, territorial
23-28°C
Omnivore (pellets, frozen, live foods)
6.5-8.0
£3-£10 per fish
How Many Convict Cichlids Should You Keep?
Convict cichlids are best kept singly, as a pair, or in carefully planned cichlid setups.
- A bonded pair works well in species tanks
- Single fish are easier in community-style setups
- Multiple pairs require large aquariums with territories
Keeping too many in small tanks can lead to:
- Aggression and fighting
- Stress and injury
- Territorial disputes
Breeding pairs can become extremely defensive.
Ideal Tank Conditions for Convict Cichlids
Providing the right environment helps reduce stress and aggression.
- Tank Setup: Structured aquarium with territories and hiding places
- Substrate: Sand or fine gravel
- Plants & Decor: Rocks, caves, driftwood, and robust décor
- Water Conditions: Stable freshwater with moderate hardness
- Filtration & Flow: Strong filtration recommended
- Lighting: Moderate lighting
They enjoy digging and may rearrange substrate and décor.
Compatibility with Other Fish
Convict cichlids can be challenging in community aquariums due to their temperament.
- Good Tankmates: other robust Central American cichlids, larger catfish, and similarly aggressive species
- Avoid: small community fish, slow-moving species, and peaceful cichlids
They become especially aggressive during breeding.
Are Convict Cichlids Easy to Care For?
Convict cichlids are easy to care for and highly suitable for beginners interested in cichlids.
They require:
- Good filtration
- Proper territories
- A varied diet
- Careful tankmate selection
They are extremely hardy and adaptable.
Convict Cichlid Price in the UK
In the UK, convict cichlids typically cost between £3-£10 per fish.
Prices vary depending on:
- Colour morph (e.g. pink convicts)
- Size and age
- Availability
- Shop vs hobbyist sellers
They are affordable and widely available.
Where to Buy Convict Cichlids in the UK
Convict cichlids are commonly available in UK aquarium shops and from hobbyist breeders.
Sourcing fish locally can:
- Reduce transport stress
- Allow you to assess size and temperament
- Offer better value
TankMate UK helps connect fishkeepers who want to buy, sell, or rehome fish safely - without shipping.
Can You Sell Convict Cichlids?
Yes - convict cichlids are very commonly bred and sold by hobbyists.
Selling locally is often the best option, as it:
- Minimises stress for the fish
- Avoids the risks of shipping
- Connects you with experienced aquarists
TankMate UK allows you to list fish quickly and find local buyers.
Feeding Convict Cichlids
Convict cichlids are omnivorous and easy to feed.
Key Tips:
- Feed high-quality cichlid pellets
- Supplement with frozen foods such as bloodworms and brine shrimp
- Include occasional vegetable matter
- Avoid overfeeding
- A varied diet supports colour and breeding condition.
Common Problems with Convict Cichlids
Aggression, often caused by:
- Small tanks
- Breeding behaviour
- Poor tankmate choices
Digging and rearranging décor, linked to:
- Natural territorial behaviour
Overpopulation, caused by:
- Frequent successful breeding
Why Convict Cichlids Are So Popular
- Hardy and beginner-friendly
- Striking striped appearance
- Very active and intelligent
- Easy to breed
- Strong parental behaviour
When kept correctly, convict cichlids are fascinating fish full of personality and interaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, especially during breeding.
Only with larger, robust species.
They are considered one of the easiest cichlids to breed.
At least 100 litres, with larger tanks preferred for pairs.
Looking to Buy or Sell Convict Cichlids Locally?
TankMate UK connects fishkeepers who want to buy, sell, or rehome fish safely within their local area.
Whether you're adding hardy cichlids to your aquarium or passing fish on to a new home, you can:
- Browse fish available near you
- List your own fish in minutes
- Avoid the risks of shipping
Explore local listings with TankMate UK and find the right fish for your aquarium.