Species profile
Checkerboard Cichlid
Dicrossus filamentosus
Peaceful
Hard care
100 L minimum aquarium
5–9 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
A sensitive dwarf cichlid requiring genuinely soft, acidic water for best long-term condition and breeding.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
26–30 °C
pH
4–6.5
GH
0–5 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Bottom–mid
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Shrimp fry
Bioload factor
1.2
Relatively peaceful outside breeding. Females may defend small brood territories; do not combine with aggressive dwarf cichlids in limited floor space.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
3–5 years
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
100 L
Minimum footprint
80 × 35 cm
Accepted scientific name
Dicrossus filamentosus
Alternative names
Checkerboard Cichlid, Lyretail Checkerboard Cichlid
Native range
Orinoco and Rio Negro regions of northern South America.
Natural habitat
Very soft, acidic blackwater habitat with fine sand, leaf litter, roots and subdued lighting. Keep nitrate and conductivity low and avoid hard alkaline water.
Diet & feeding
Micro-predator. Feed small live/frozen invertebrates with quality fine prepared foods. Wild or newly imported specimens may initially reject dry foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males grow larger and develop much more extended dorsal/caudal fin rays and stronger colour; females remain smaller and rounder.
Breeding
Open-substrate/leaf spawner rather than a true cave breeder. The female guards eggs and fry and can become territorial during brood care.