What size tank do convict cichlids need?
At least 30 gallons (114 liters) for a pair. The smallest standard tank that works is the 29 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable. We give the size for an adult fish in a pair, because the small fish in the shop will grow. Scientific name: Amatitlania nigrofasciata.
How many convict cichlids in each tank size?
This is how many each standard tank carries comfortably if convict cichlids are the only fish in it. Share the tank with other species and the number goes down.
| Tank | How many convict cichlids |
|---|---|
| 5 gallon | Too small |
| 10 gallon | Too small |
| 20 gallon long | Too small |
| 29 gallon | 2 |
| 40 gallon breeder | 2 |
| 55 gallon | 2 |
| 75 gallon | up to 4 |
| 125 gallon | up to 8 |
Check convict cichlids against your own tank and other fish
Good to know
- Best kept as a pair. A pair will claim a patch of the tank floor and defend it, most of all when they have eggs.
Tank mates for convict cichlids
These animals like the same water, are a safe size, and have a temper that fits. It is a match on paper: always watch new tankmates for the first week.
- Three-spot gourami
- Electric blue acara
- African butterfly fish
- Jack Dempsey
- Firemouth cichlid
- Yoyo loach
- Kribensis
- Rainbow shark
Poor matches
- Betta: Convict cichlid is aggressive and much bigger. Betta would be bullied.
- Fancy goldfish: Goldfish do best with other fancy goldfish.
- Oscar: Oscar (about 12 in) can eat convict cichlid (about 5 in).
Questions and answers
What size tank do convict cichlids need?
At least 30 gallons (114 liters) for a pair. The smallest standard tank that works is the 29 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable.
How many convict cichlids should be kept together?
At least 2. Convict cichlids are social animals and only behave naturally in a group. More is better if the tank has room.
Can convict cichlids live in a 10 gallon tank?
No. Convict cichlid needs at least 30 gallons (114 liters).
What temperature do convict cichlids need?
72–82 °F (22–28 °C), with a pH of 6.5–8. In most homes that means a heater.
Can convict cichlids live with a betta?
It is not a good match. Convict cichlid is aggressive and much bigger. Betta would be bullied.
More fish
Adult size, tank size and water ranges follow the mainstream care consensus (Seriously Fish species profiles and FishBase maximum lengths). Where sources differ we use the more cautious figure. Stocking numbers come from our stocking calculator.