Convict and firemouth

[dyoungle]

I think we have a unique situation. We have a 55 gallon tank with an oscar, dempsy, convict and firemouth. A couple of weeks ago our convict and firemouth decided to be friends after months of aggressive behavior. Today we noticed that they have a fry. This is completely unexpected. I was wondering if any one can give us some information on if this type of hybrid has happened before. If it has is there a name for these fish? Any information would be helpful. Thank you

[Nick89]

Not real sure but i think you might be a little over stocked in your 55g. And if the firemouth is anything like the convicts during this time then those other fish might get picked on.

[Billythefish]

Not real sure but i think you might be a little over stocked in your 55g. And if the firemouth is anything like the convicts during this time then those other fish might get picked on.

yes totally over stocked and a photo of your hybrid fry would be cool

[Lady Hobbs]

Convicts are said to be very aggressive during spawning and will take on about anything to protect their young. The dempsey and oscar are apt to eat all those fry, as well. I think you're in for some problems and to hold down that aggression, I'd get rid of those eggs.

[Abbeys_Mom]

I am not sure if there is a name for Firemouth/Convict hybrid. Hybrids are not really welcome in the hobby, so if you do raise the fry and re-home them please be responsible and let people know they are hybrids.

[nanaglen2001]

Those eggs will be infertile, so dont worry. FMs and Convicts belong to different families. And, as some people already mentioned, your tank is heavily overstocked.

Hybridisation could happen with Th. meeki (FM) and Th. ellioti, or Convict and T-bar, but not with Thorichthys (FM) and Cryptoheros (Convict).

[Lady Hobbs]

Excellent information Andrea. Thanks!

[dyoungle]

When you say the eggs will be infertile, that means as adults right? The eggs have already hatched. I guess we just never expected this to happen,actually thought that it could not. thank you for the information.

[Abbeys_Mom]

I would cull them. It's sad, but for the best.

[Lady Hobbs]

WHOOPS. Nanaglen said the eggs would be infertile, not the adults. Guess your fish had their own plans. :)

Problem is they have now paired up and probably will remain as pairs so don't be surprised if they continue as pairs. Convicts also spawn successful with female blood parrots producing JellyBeans. Fish do come with their own bag of tricks sometimes.

Do not keep them until you are attached to them as then it is very hard to cull them unless you a heartless beast. I just ran into the same problem with over 250 firemouth fry and now check the tank daily to remove any eggs I see. You have the perfect culling machine.......the Oscar!