A. calobrensis is not as common in the hobby as some other species in the genus (most notably A. citrinellus). It was considered a member of the genus Cichlasoma for some time, before being restored to its original position in Amphilophus. However it exhibits several characteristics that seem to set it apart from its congeners. As a result many experts believe it will probably be moved into a newly-erected genus at some point in the future. You may also see it listed as a member of Astatheros oc…

A hugely popular and very adaptable species, the convict is one of the most ubiquitous fish in the hobby. It is often referred to by synonyms such as Cryptoheros nigrofasciatus and Cichlasoma nigrofasciatus. It's difficult to know how much to recommend it to the beginner, as despite its hardiness and ease of breeding, it's not really a community fish. However, if you want to breed a species and witness some amazing parental behaviour, it's an unreserved recommendation. It now exis…