Spotted Checkerboard Cichlid

Dicrossus maculatus

📍 South America

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.

Size1.5"

Min Tank10g

peaceful

Zonebottom

Care Guide

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

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

Java Moss

Dense vegetation provides shelter and breeding substrate

excellent

Common Diseases

Ichthyophthirius multifiliis (Ich)

Symptoms

White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, lethargy, rubbing against objects

Treatment

Increase temperature gradually to 28-30 C (82-86 F), perform daily water changes, use aquarium salt at half dose or commercial ich treatment; maintain for 10-14 days

Fin Rot

Symptoms

Frayed or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, lethargy

Treatment

Perform frequent water changes, improve water quality, use antibacterial medication if severe; ensure pristine conditions as this species is sensitive to poor water quality

Hexamita (Hole-in-the-Head)

Symptoms

Pits or holes in head region, loss of appetite, weight loss, dark coloration

Treatment

Perform large water changes, improve diet with quality foods and live foods, use metronidazole-based medication; ensure optimal water parameters

Columnaris

Symptoms

White or grayish film on body, mouth deterioration, rapid breathing, lethargy

Treatment

Increase aeration, perform daily water changes, use antibacterial medication; isolate affected fish if possible and maintain pristine water conditions