Checkerboard Cichlid (Dicrossus filamentosus)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Hard care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameDicrossus filamentosus

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asLyretail Checkerboard, Crenicara filamentosa, Spade-tail Checkerboard

Care levelHard

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentPeaceful

Dietcarnivore

Adult size3.5 in

Minimum tank size20 gallons

Water parametersTemp 79-85°F, pH 4.5-6.5, GH 1-5 dGH

Appearance

Slender, elegant body with a checkerboard pattern of dark squares along the flanks; males develop a striking red-and-white forked (lyre) tail with extended filaments.

Difficulty and care for the Checkerboard Cichlid

Hard

Origin and habitat

Rio Negro and Orinoco blackwater, South America

Keeper notes

Very peaceful and timid dwarf cichlid, harmless to most tankmates. Will eat tiny shrimp and fry. Sensitive to water quality and easily outcompeted; keep with calm, soft-water companions. Not for beginners due to demanding water needs.

Log Checkerboard Cichlid in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Checkerboard Cichlid alongside everything else in your reef.

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