Checkerboard Cichlid

Scientific Name: Dicrossus filamentosus
Common Names: Checkerboard Cichlid, Lyretail Checkerboard Cichlid
Family: Cichlidae
Origin: South America (Amazon River basin, Rio Negro, and Orinoco River basin in Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil; slow-moving, leaf-littered streams)
Size: Males 3–3.8 inches (7.5–9.6 cm); females 2–2.5 inches (5–6.5 cm)
Lifespan: 5–8 years with proper care

Behavior: Peaceful but slightly territorial, especially during breeding. Thrives in small groups of 4–6 with one male and multiple females to reduce aggression. Females are dedicated parents, guarding fry alone.

Temperature: 77–84°F (25–29°C); avoid prolonged exposure above 86°F.
pH: 4.5–6.5 (acidic; prefers soft, blackwater conditions).

Tank Requirements: Minimum 30 gallons (113 liters) for a small group; 55 gallons or more for larger groups. Use a fine sand substrate with leaf litter (e.g., Indian almond leaves), driftwood, and caves for hiding. Include robust plants (e.g., Anubias, Java Fern) and floating plants (e.g., Salvinia) to create a shaded, blackwater environment. A tight-fitting lid prevents jumping.

Compatible with peaceful nano fish like Neon Tetras, Pencilfish, Dwarf Corydoras, or small Apistogramma species. Avoid aggressive or large fish, as Dicrossus filamentosus is shy and easily stressed. Safe with larger shrimp (e.g., Amano Shrimp) in planted tanks, though shrimplets may be eaten.