Gold Convict Cichlid (Amatitlania nanolutea "Gold") – Locally Bred

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The Gold Convict Cichlid (Amatitlania nanolutea) is a rare and stunning variation of the convict group, notable for its compact size and golden yellow coloration. Unlike the more common Convict Cichlid, this species remains smaller and is less aggressive, making it a unique addition for aquarists who enjoy Central American cichlids but want something more manageable. Our specimens are locally bred, ensuring excellent health, adaptability, and sustainability.

What We Love About This Fish:

• Bright Gold Coloration – Striking yellow body with subtle vertical barring.
• Smaller Size – Reaches only about 3–4 inches, perfect for mid-sized aquariums.
• Pair Bonding – Forms strong pairs and shows excellent parental care.
• Locally Bred – Healthier, hardier, and raised in aquarium conditions.

Natural Habitat:

The wild form of this species is native to rivers and streams of Costa Rica and Panama, where it inhabits slow-moving waters with sandy or rocky bottoms. This locally bred variety retains the same vibrant personality and behaviors but is more adaptable to community aquariums.

Aquascaping:

Creating the right environment for Gold Convict Cichlids is about combining function with beauty. These fish love to explore, claim territories, and dig when preparing to spawn, so the aquascape should reflect their natural behavior.

• Plants: Choose sturdy, resilient plants like Anubias, Java Fern, or Vallisneria that can be attached to rocks and driftwood instead of planted directly in the substrate. Since Gold Convicts may uproot softer plants while digging, epiphyte plants or potted arrangements are the most reliable choices. Floating plants like Frogbit can provide shade and help diffuse light, giving the fish a more natural environment.

• Hardscape: Rocky caves, stacked stones, and driftwood are essential. These structures not only provide shelter and breeding sites but also help break up line of sight, reducing aggression between pairs or tank mates. Smooth river rocks and slate are especially effective for creating spawning surfaces and territorial boundaries.

• Botanicals: Natural additions like Indian Almond Leaves, Catappa Bark, or alder cones enrich the water with beneficial tannins and humic substances while offering subtle hiding spots for fry. These botanicals create a more natural look and release compounds that can support overall fish health and well-being.

Diet and Feeding:

The Gold Convict Cichlid is an omnivore. It thrives on a balanced diet of high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp), and live foods. Vegetables such as blanched spinach or spirulina-based foods will enhance color and digestion.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

Best housed as a bonded pair or with other similarly sized Central American cichlids in larger tanks. While less aggressive than standard Convicts, they are still territorial, especially when breeding. Avoid housing with delicate or very small species.

Shrimp Compatibility:

Not recommended for shrimp tanks. This species will prey on shrimp, including adults.

Breeding:

Breeds readily in aquariums. Pairs form strong bonds and exhibit classic cichlid parental care, guarding eggs and fry aggressively. Eggs are usually laid on flat rock surfaces and hatch in 3–4 days. Fry are free-swimming within a week and can be fed on baby brine shrimp or powdered food.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 75° – 82° F (24° – 28° C)
• pH: 7.0 – 8.0
• KH: 8 – 15 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons for a pair

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Omnivorous; thrives on a varied diet of pellets, frozen, and live foods.
• Social Behavior: Territorial when breeding; best kept as a pair or with similarly sized cichlids.
• Origin: Locally bred in the USA.
• Average Adult Size: 3 – 4 inches (7.5 – 10 cm)
• Average Purchase Size: 1 – 1.5 inches (2.5 – 3.8 cm)

Add a brilliant splash of golden color and fascinating behavior to your aquarium with the Gold Convict Cichlid – Locally Bred, a sustainable and hardy choice for cichlid enthusiasts.

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