Spotted Checkerboard Cichlid

Dicrossus maculatus

Also known as Spotted Checkerboard Dwarf Cichlid, Maculatus Cichlid

Animalia›Chordata›Perciformes›Cichlidae

The Spotted Checkerboard Cichlid is a small, peaceful dwarf cichlid native to South American blackwater streams, known for its distinctive checkerboard pattern and spotted markings. This species is ideal for planted nano aquariums and community setups due to its calm temperament and minimal bioload. They are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for intermediate aquarists.

Where it's from

Native to the Amazon and Orinoco river basins

Brazil and Colombia

At a glance

Size: 1.5 in; 4 cm
Min tank: 10 gal; 38 L
Temp: 75–82°F; 24–28°C
pH: 5.5-7.0
GH: 36–143 ppm; 2–8 dGH
Temperament: Peaceful
Swims: Bottom
Lifespan: 3-5 yrs

Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.

Care

Diet

Feed small live foods such as microworms, vinegar eels, and newly hatched brine shrimp as primary diet, supplemented with high-quality micro pellets designed for small fish. Feed small portions 2-3 times daily, only what they can consume in a few minutes. This species prefers live foods and may be reluctant to accept dry foods initially.

Behavior

Spotted Checkerboard Cichlids are bottom-dwelling, shy fish that spend most of their time foraging among substrate and plants. They are solitary or form pairs and are generally non-aggressive, though males may display territorial behavior during breeding. They are most active during dawn and dusk, remaining relatively hidden during bright daylight hours.

Breeding

Breeding is moderately difficult and requires pristine water conditions, acidic pH (5.5-6.5), and plenty of hiding spots such as caves or dense vegetation. Pairs are monogamous and will guard eggs and fry aggressively. Fry are extremely small and require infusoria or liquid fry food for the first week before accepting microworms.

Tank mates

See all 6

Neon Tetra

Similar size and peaceful temperament; occupy different water zones

excellent

Otocinclus

Peaceful bottom dweller; helps with algae control without competing

excellent

Amano Shrimp

Peaceful invertebrate; may be preyed upon if very small

good

Ember Tetra

Tiny peaceful fish; similar water parameter requirements

excellent

Dwarf Hairgrass

Provides cover and natural habitat for bottom-dwelling behavior

excellent

Fits a 10-gallon tank Peaceful

No state or federal restrictions on record.

Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.

The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it. Native range: Catálogo Taxonômico da Fauna do Brasil (CC BY 4.0); Tedesco et al. 2017 (CC0).