The following criteria are all combined to distinguish a size standard for dwarf cichlids.
Male specimen can be no longer than 14 cm in their wild biotope. This length allows for larger fish to be considered, but is modified by the other criterion.
Female specimens may be no longer than 12 cm in their wild environment, regardless of their relationship to the males of their species.
Size at sexual maturity must be 10 cm for males and 8 cm for females.
For the larger candidates being considered that are close (within 2 cm) of the size limits, a minimal body depth should produce the "impression" of a smaller size. This means that long fish must not also be exceedingly tall or wide. Discus are a prime example of this and in many ways meet the requirements of a dwarf cichlid. However, they are far too high-bodied to be considered, even if the maximum length for a female in the wild was 12 cm. Whereas, Crenicichla regani (one of the dwarf pike cichlids) males are 13cm, but appear to be a smaller fish because of their slender body.
next is the list to the behavioral paterns of a dwarf cichlid in home aquaria
No or minimal live plant destruction.
No or minimal substrate excavation. This does not include limited cave digging associated with breeding.
They can be housed individually with other cichlids. This means a single specimen can be kept with other species of cichlids.
Minimal predatory instincts. This suggests that they must have food requirements other than their tank-mates, as well as accepting of non-cichlid species ( see 5)
Can be kept with "dither" fish. This suggests that other fish won’t be regularly killed during non-breeding times.
Males and females of that species can be housed together.
Can be bred in a 30 inch x 12 inch tank (20gal. long), although larger quarters would be more appropriate.
Juveniles can be housed together as a group at sub-adult size. Some juvenile cichlids start killing or eating each other at a young age (i.e. Various Hemichromis species show cannibalism by 2 to 3cm).
Although Convict cichlids fit within the parameters of size, they are far too belligerent and aggressive to be considered a dwarf. Other cichlids are more marginal in terms of their behavior and should be closely examined for their ability to fit within the "dwarf" scheme presented here.
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