Convict Also Developing Bump On Head

[Ludwig Venter]

The oldest Convict I have (in Tony's) tank is approximately 6 years old, and (overnight).... it has developed the same "bump on the head" as seen in Frontosa... (parrot fish)....

Is this the way Convicts go when they get a bit older, or do I have a freak??

 

[shroob]

Some convicts do get a slight nuchal hump, but its nothing as pronounced as a frontosa or say a red devil.

 

[foley69]

my male has a nuchal lump as well he is 4" and i have no idea how old he is as i got him when he was 3.5" about 2 monthes ago

 

[Colin_T]

The nuchal hump is usually well defined in dominant well fed older male cichlids. It is mainly a fatty deposit that can be used as a food reserve in lean times but also indicates to females that this male is in a good area and has plenty to eat. However, the lump on South American cichlids doesn't get as big or pronounced as a Frontosa and it takes a month or more to develop. If it grew overnight then it could be a cyst or swelling of some sort.

 

[Ludwig Venter]

If it grew overnight then it could be a cyst or swelling of some sort.

"Overnight"... Sorry Collin... Term of speaking here in SA which could indicate...Well!.."Overnight"... or anything up to ...you know...three weeks or a month...or 2??

 

[Colin_T]

yeah I thought you might have meant that but wasn't sure
If the fish has developed it over the last month or so then it is simply a big old male that is in prime condition.