Chessboard Cichlid

Dicrossus maculatus

Chessboard Cichlid is a peaceful middle swimmer. Best kept as a pair.

PeacefulMiddle swimmerBest kept as a pairIntermediate – Advanced

Save this fish or add it directly to one of your aquariums.

Quick facts

Adult size
≤ 3.9" (≤ 10 cm)
Aquarium size
37 US gal (140 L) or larger / ≥ 23.6" (≥ 60 cm) minimum length
Care level
Intermediate – Advanced
Temperament
Peaceful
Swimming zone
Middle swimmer
Temperature
79–86°F (26–30°C)
pH
3.5–5.5
GH
0–1 dGH
Diet
Omnivore
Lifespan
up to 10 years
Group behavior
Best kept as a pair

Care requirements

Care level: Intermediate – Advanced.

Lifespan: up to 10 years.

Aquarium size and space needs

Minimum aquarium size: 37 US gal (140 L) or larger / ≥ 23.6" (≥ 60 cm) minimum length. Plan the layout and stocking within that limit.

Water parameters

Suitable water: temperature 26–30 °C, pH 3.5–5.5, GH 0–1 dGH.

Temperament and compatibility

Chessboard Cichlid is peaceful and suits calm community fish.

Best kept as a pair.

Swimming zone and behavior

This fish uses the middle part of the aquarium, so leave enough open swimming space for movement and feeding. Best kept as a pair.

Feeding

As an omnivore, Chessboard Cichlid should receive a varied diet rather than one repeated food type.

Before adding this fish

  • Plan for an aquarium of 37 US gal (140 L) or larger / ≥ 23.6" (≥ 60 cm) minimum length.
  • Make room for its social group.
  • Avoid aggressive or highly competitive fish.
  • Best kept as a pair.
  • Offer a varied diet that matches this species.

Natural habitat and origin

Origin: Brazil.

Similar fish profiles

Use these profiles to compare fish with similar care level, size, temperature range, or swimming behavior.

African Butterfly Cichlid Anomalochromis thomasi Same family Similar care level Same temperament Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 3.1" (≤ 8 cm) 72–79°F (22–26°C) Allpahuayo Dwarf Cichlid Apistogramma allpahuayo Same family Similar care level Same temperament Intermediate ≤ 2.8" (≤ 7 cm) 75–82°F (24–28°C) Aurora Lizard Tetra Iguanodectes variatus Similar care level Same temperament Same swimming zone Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 3.9" (≤ 10 cm) 72–79°F (22–26°C) Blue Cheek Dwarf Cichlid Apistogramma eunotus Same family Similar care level Same temperament Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2.2" (≤ 5.5 cm) 73–84°F (23–29°C) Black Banded Rainbowfish Melanotaenia nigrans Similar care level Same temperament Same swimming zone Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 3.9" (≤ 10 cm) 73–82°F (23–28°C) Altifron Eartheater Geophagus altifrons Same family Similar care level Same temperament Intermediate ≤ 8.7" (≤ 22 cm) 79–90°F (26–32°C)

FAQ

How large does Chessboard Cichlid get?

Chessboard Cichlid reaches ≤ 3.9" (≤ 10 cm).

What aquarium size does Chessboard Cichlid need?

Use an aquarium of at least 37 US gal (140 L) or larger / ≥ 23.6" (≥ 60 cm) minimum length.

Is Chessboard Cichlid peaceful?

Yes. Chessboard Cichlid is recorded as peaceful and is best planned with calm community fish that do not harass it or dominate the feeding area.

What temperature is suitable for Chessboard Cichlid?

Keep it between 26 to 30 °C.

Should Chessboard Cichlid be kept alone or in a group?

Chessboard Cichlid: Best kept as a pair.

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