Checkerboard Cichlid
Checkerboard Cichlid (Crenicara punctulata) is a dwarf cichlid with a pale body marked by rows of dark spots creating a checkerboard pattern — similar name to the Dicrossus but a distinct species. Males develop elongated fin extensions and vivid coloration in breeding condition.
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, South America. 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 | 3.5 inches (9 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, South America |
| Notes | Distinct from Dicrossus maculatus (Spadetailed Checkerboard). Rows of spots create checkerboard pattern. Males develop fin extensions. |
