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Freshwater fishCheckerboard Cichlid
Checkerboard Cichlid
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The dwarf checkerboard cichlid is shy, peaceful and small. These dwarf cichlids are at their best in a peaceful planted community tank with lower pH. They eat flake food. In the wild they are found throughout the upper Amazonian region in small ponds and slow-flowing streams. Checkerboard cichlids are always wild-caught, and we generally ship them in from Colombia. These fish are best kept in small groups.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Dicrossus filamentosus |
| Origin | Rio Negro and Orinoco basins (Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil) |
| Care Level | Moderate to difficult (needs very soft, acidic water) |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Adult Size | Up to 3" (males) |
| Lifespan | 3–5 years |
| Diet | Omnivore (tiny foods) |
| Water Temperature | 76–84°F |
| pH | 4.5–6.5 |
| Group Size | Pair, or one male with several females |
| Shipping Size | Approx. 1" |
Care Guide
Tank setup: Give them a planted tank with soft, acidic water, a sand bottom, driftwood, leaf litter and caves or flat stones for spawning. Gentle filtration and stable, clean water are important.
Feeding: Feed small amounts of quality micro pellets or flake once or twice a day. They also enjoy frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp.
Tankmates: Keep them with small, peaceful fish like tetras, rasboras, pencilfish, hatchetfish and corydoras. Avoid large or boisterous fish, and expect them to eat small shrimp.
Good to know: Dwarf cichlids often pair off and guard their eggs and fry, which is fun to watch in a planted tank.
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