How Big Do Convict Cichlids Grow: Tips for Faster Growth

Convict cichlids are one of the more popular fish in the aquarium industry. They come in various colors and patterns and can be entertaining. They are also relatively easy to care for, making them a good option for beginner aquarium owners.

How big do convict cichlid grow? The convict cichlid can grow to 4 to 5 inches but usually does not exceed 5 inches. In addition, they can grow to a full size of only 7 inches in captivity, but this is also a rocky area.

How Fast Do Convict Cichlids Grow?

The convict cichlid grows for 1 to 1.5 years to reach its full size. In addition, they achieve maturity at the age of 4 years. Such characteristics are grouped with other cichlids, which grow very slowly and need much time to mature. Furthermore, an adult convict cichlid can reach its full size in captivity after 3 to 5 years but usually does not exceed 6 or 7 inches in length. Growing on high-quality foods makes it more prone to illness for no reason.

How Fast Do Baby Convict Cichlids Grow?

As for the baby convict, cichlids grow relatively quickly and usually reach their full size within a year or two. However, there is no guarantee that all babies will survive, as some tiny ones might not make it. In addition, the growth rate depends on the environment and quality of food, as it is essential to feed properly a cichlid that grows quickly.

When Do Convict Cichlids Reach Sexual Maturity?

As for the convict cichlid, they reach sexual maturity as young as 16 weeks. However, again this is a rocky area as some specimens might mature earlier or later than this age. Additionally, the thick-shelled stone they eat before reaching this age can cause them to grow very quickly. Consequently, it is best to look for specimens at least six months old but not exceed eight weeks.

How to Help Your Convict Cichlids Grow Fast?

To make your convict cichlids grow fast, you need to provide them with a good quality diet that includes plenty of fresh foods. Additionally, it is essential to keep the fish in a healthy environment and provide adequate oxygen levels. In addition, it is crucial to control the water hardness, temperature, and pH levels.

Avoiding Stress and Illness

As with all fish, it is vital to keep them stress-free and avoid giving them any medication unless prescribed by a veterinarian. Additionally, clean their tanks regularly as they can get sick from dirty water.

A Good Water Quality

Ensure water quality levels by using appropriate filtration and keeping your fish clean. In addition, avoid using plants and wood in the aquarium as these can cause rot.

Clean and Healthy Aquarium

Sometimes, it might occur that your convict cichlid will not eat for more than a few days at a time, perhaps due to changes in water chemistry or fish food being contaminated with some toxin. To prevent serious illness from happening, you should spot-check the eating habits of all your fish on a routine basis and remove any sick or dead fish from the tank.

Spacious Aquarium

Although convict cichlids are voracious predators, they will grow much faster if they have plenty of space to move about and hide. In addition, please provide them with caves or other hiding places where they can rest during the day. In addition, make sure to keep their tank clean, so they do not start cleaning the tank.

Healthy Diet

Convict cichlids are omnivorous and will eat various foods, including fresh fruits and vegetables. In addition, you can feed them good quality fish food that includes live and fresh ingredients.

Convict Cichlid: General Care

Providing adequate care for your convict cichlid will help to ensure that they remain healthy and stress-free. To keep the tank clean and healthy, use appropriate filtration and update the water chemistry regularly. Additionally, please provide them with plenty of space to move about, eat and hide and feed them a diet that includes live and fresh ingredients.

Aquarium Size

As for the tank size, a good rule of thumb is to provide at least 30 gallons for a single cichlid with plenty of hiding areas and plants to nibble on.

Water Parameters

Water parameters for convict cichlids should be monitored regularly and appropriate adjustments made as needed. The water temperature should range from 70 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit, and the pH level should stay between 6.5 and 8.0. However, it is essential to note that these are guidelines rather than problematic limitations.

Aquarium Equipment

To attract convict cichlids to your tank, you can give them a variety of foods, including live and fresh fish. You can also add plants such as java fern or other aquatic plants. In addition, it is essential to provide them with a place to hide. Crates and rock caves are both examples of sites that they can use as retreats or where they will feel safe enough to jump during the daytime. You can give your convict cichlid various other decorations, such as wood, corals, and rocks at different levels inside their tank, so they have something interesting in several areas in their tank.

Common Diseases

The most common diseases affecting convict cichlids include severe fin rot and Ich. Therefore, it is vital to keep their water clean and healthy by using appropriate filtration and making regular adjustments to the water parameters. Treatment of these diseases will usually require a combination of medications and aggressive tank care.

Behavior & Temperament

As with all fish, the behavior and temperament of convict cichlids will be influenced by various factors, including water temperature, pH level, and food availability. They are usually considered peaceful fish that can readily accept other tankmates.