The Convict Cichlid is native to Central America. It is one of the aggressive cichlids. Because of this, the Convict Ciclid isn't suited for the community tanks. However, they are still a popular choice for intermediate hobbyists with an established background in cichlids. If you are unfamiliar with this fish, I'm here to help! Below, I prepare some standards to distinguish the Convict Cichlid male vs. female. It's simple. See closer!

• Color and Markings

  The Convict Cichlid most commonly has a grey to silver body with multiple black vertical bars down the body. Distinguishing the male and female is pretty straightforward. Unlike other types of fish, the female Convict Cichlid is more highly colored than the males.

  

• Size

  Another way to distinguish the males and females of Convict Cichlids is by their grown size. The males are typically more extensive in size than the females. Males' size can exceed 4 inches, but a reasonable average for both sexes is about 3.5 inches long.

• Fins

  I always use fins to determine whether certain cichlids are males or females. In Convict Cichlids, the male has more pointed ventral, dorsal, and anal fins, which often extend into filaments. 

  

• Forehead

  If you see some Convict Chiclids have vestigial fatty lumps on their foreheads, they are males. Older males frequently develop this lump in response to hormonal stimuli. Female Convict Chiclids can also produce a lump in their head, but it's just a hint that it is not as full as the males.

• Belly

  During spawning season, the female Convict Cichlids will develop an orange patch on their bellies. However, if, by any chance, these females don't have an interest in breeding, it may be hard to differentiate the male from the female.

  

Conclusion

The standard above helps you determine whether you have a male or female Convict Cichlid in your home. As you have read, male and female Convict Cichlids aren't that similar—they are easy to distinguish!