Checkerboard Dwarf Cichlid

Scientific Name: Dicrossus filamentosus
Common Names: Checkerboard Cichlid, Chessboard Cichlid
Origin: Amazon Basin (Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil)
Adult Size: 2.5–3 inches (6–7.5 cm)
Lifespan: 3–5 years
Temperament: Peaceful, slightly territorial during breeding
Swimming Zone: Bottom to mid-level

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Sales Description

The Checkerboard Dwarf Cichlid (Dicrossus filamentosus) is a small, elegant dwarf cichlid known for its intricate checkerboard body pattern and graceful movement. Males develop extended filamentous fin rays and vibrant red coloration, while females remain more subtly patterned and compact.

Native to the soft, tannin-rich waters of the Amazon, this peaceful species thrives in well-maintained, planted aquariums with subdued lighting and plenty of cover. Their calm nature and manageable size make them ideal for peaceful community setups, especially alongside small tetras, rasboras, and invertebrates.

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Care Guide

Aquarium Requirements

• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (long format preferred)

• Aquascape Style: Amazon-style layout with leaf litter, driftwood, and soft substrate

• Plants & Décor: Dense planting, floating plants for shade, caves, coconut hides

• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel—ideal for sifting and foraging

• Filtration: Gentle flow with high water quality; sponge pre-filter recommended

• Lighting: Low to moderate; indirect or filtered light preferred

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)

• pH: 5.0–6.8 (acidic ideal for long-term health and breeding)

• Hardness: Soft water preferred (1–6 dGH)

• Tannins: Beneficial—consider adding Indian almond leaves or driftwood

• Water Changes: 20–30% weekly, with stable, clean conditions

Feeding & Diet

• Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times daily

• Diet Type: Carnivorous/micro-predator

• Recommended Foods:

  • Frozen/live: baby brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, blackworms

  • High-quality micro pellets (soft texture preferred)

  • Occasional Repashy (Community Plus, Meat Pie)

Note: May refuse dry food initially—acclimate slowly with live/frozen options.

Social Behavior & Tankmates

• Temperament: Peaceful, shy; males may become territorial during breeding

• Best Kept As: Pairs or harem groups (1 male to 2 females) in larger tanks

• Compatible Tankmates:

  • Small, peaceful fish: ember tetras, pencilfish, hatchetfish

  • Corydoras, otocinclus, peaceful dwarf shrimp

• Avoid: Large, aggressive, or fast-swimming fish that may outcompete them or cause stress

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Breeding Notes

• Spawning Style: Cave spawner; female lays eggs on a surface inside shelter

• Parental Care: Female guards and tends the fry, male may help guard territory

• Breeding Setup:

  • Soft, acidic water (pH < 6.5)

  • Leaf litter or caves for egg deposition

  • Fry feed on infusoria, microworms, or powdered food once free-swimming

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Available Now at Planted Aquaria

Bring natural Amazonian elegance to your aquarium with the Checkerboard Dwarf Cichlid, a peaceful and visually stunning dwarf species. Ideal for planted and soft-water tanks, these fish thrive in calm, well-structured environments and reward aquarists with beautiful patterns and natural breeding behavior.