Breeding Convict Cichlids

Convict Cichlids (Archocentrus nigrofasciatus) also know as Zebra Cichlids (due to their 8-9 black, vertical, Zebra-like stripes) are very popular specie of Cichlids. They are one of the easiest Cichlids to take care of and adult convict Cichlids are know to be very attentive parents which also makes them a lot easier to breed then other species of tropical fish.

Although they require minimal supervision during the breeding stage you still have to do a couple of things before they start breeding. Here are just the basics you need to know for breeding of convict Cichlids:

Set the right breeding environment: Make sure that the water temperature does not exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit; ideal range is between 74 to 78 degrees. Replace 10-15% of water in the fish tank everyday day to make sure that the water ammonia levels are low.

Feed the adult convict Cichlids with variety of protein rich food: Feeding your adult Convict Cichlids with protein-rich food is very important in the breeding stage. The basic source of food should be flakes but also add live food once in a while such as dried blood worms or live black worms.

Provide conditions for laying eggs: Convicts need to dig out a cave in the gravel to lay eggs. Make sure your gravel does not consist of stones too big for the Cichlids to move around.

Monitor the pH of the water: Convict Cichlids cannot reproduce in acidic water with pH under 7. They need slightly alkaline water. Always keep the pH above 7 but below 8.