Spadetailed Checkerboard Cichlid
Spadetailed Checkerboard Cichlid
Spadetailed Checkerboard Cichlid (Dicrossus maculatus) is a tiny and exquisitely patterned South American dwarf cichlid with a pale body covered in a precise checkerboard pattern of dark square markings and elongated spade-shaped tail fin extensions in males — an extraordinary combination of geometric patterning and flowing fin.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Micro Pellets and Sera Vipan Baby make excellent daily staples. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp and Hikari Frozen Daphnia. Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.
Native to Amazon basin, Brazil. A planted aquarium with caves, driftwood, and soft slightly acidic water produces the best coloration and most natural behavior.
Keep as a pair with one or two females. Flat or cave surface spawner with devoted biparental care.
A rewarding and often spectacular South American cichlid.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy — Moderate |
| Temperament | Peaceful — community dwarf cichlid |
| Typical Adult Size | 2.5 inches (6.3 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | Pair |
| Ideal Temp | 75–82°F (24–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 2–12 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 0–6 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Micro Pellets; Sera Vipan Baby |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp; Hikari Frozen Daphnia |
| Origin | Amazon basin, Brazil |
| Notes | Checkerboard dark square pattern. Males have elongated spade-like tail fins. Soft acidic water important. Nano-friendly. |
