Chessboard Cichlid (Dicrossus filamentosus)

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Chessboard Cichlid

Dicrossusfilamentosus3453.jpg
Chessboard Cichlid

Dicrossus filamentosus

45 Litres (12 US G.)

3-4.1cm (1.2-1.6 ")

sg

Freshwater

pH

5.0 - 7.0

23 -25 °C (73.4-77°F)

5-8 °d

1:2 M:F

Carnivore
Pellet Foods
Flake Foods
Live Foods

3-5 years

Family

Cichlidae



Additional names

Checkerboard Cichlid, Chessboard Cichlid, Lyretailed Checkerboard Cichlid

Additional scientific names

Crenicara filamentosa, Dicrossus filamentosa


Origin

South America in the Rio Icana. A black-water river, near the Rio Negro.


Sexing

Mature males will have more colour and longer tips on the fins.


Tank compatibility

Since this fish is a Dwarf Cichlid, typically it benefits from having smaller companions. Tank mates such as Cardinal Tetras, Lemon Tetras, Glowlight Tetras etc. Bottom dwellers such as Corydoras are also good. Avoid fin-nippers such as Tiger Barbs and Serpae Tetras. Very active fish like some Loaches may bother this fish.


Diet

Prefers a meaty diet of bloodworm and Cichlid pellets.


Feeding regime

Feed bloodworm twice a week and feed flake and pellets sparingly on other days. Feed little but often.


Environment specifics

Provide this fish with a spacious tank and plenty of hiding places, due to its origins, it prefers softer water and a lower pH.


Behaviour

Not overly aggressive, but Cichlids will be Cichlids so some individuals may display more aggressive behaviour than others, especially males towards other males of the same species.


Identification

White base colour with a checkered pattern on the body, in between blue bars and shading. Long flowing rays on the tips of the tail.

Pictures

External links