The Convict Cichlid

Convict Cichlids are prevalent in the streams and lakes of Central America. This species is rampant along the eastern coast of Central America. In this part of the water world, you will find this particular species staking claim over territory and fighting to protect it. They have derived their name due to the black stripes which are similar to the stripes of a prisoner's uniform. They are quite tolerant of cool water and this has allowed the species to inhabit the volcanic lakes. Convict Cichlids are notorious troublemakers, and keeping them among other fish, means constant watch for aggression in the aquarium.

Although these fish are beautiful, agile and display significant colors, their aggression is a major factor that prevents one from keeping these fish with other placid fish. I am an aquarium hobbyist, and have a generation of these naughty fish since almost 4 years. When the idea of raising fry to adults comes into the picture, ensuring a lower mortality rate is a bit of a problem.