Golden Dwarf Cichlid Care Guide
Nannacara anomala is a hardy dwarf cichlid from the Guianas with metallic green-gold males, tolerant of varied water and offering strong parental care.
Overview
Nannacara anomala, the golden dwarf cichlid, is a member of the family Cichlidae found in freshwater of the Guianas, from the Aruka River in Guyana to the Maroni River in Suriname. Males show metallic green-gold scales. It is a hardy species known for strong parental care.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Nannacara
- Scientific name: Nannacara anomala
Habitat
The species is often found on flooded savannas near the coast. Males adopt a greenish tinge under acidic conditions, indicating a preference for soft, acidic water in parts of its range.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 L
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7.5
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- Water flow: low
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
A sand substrate with planting and several cave-like retreats suits this adaptable species and provides spawning sites.
Diet
In nature it feeds on crustaceans, insects and other small animals. In the aquarium it is an omnivore that accepts small live, frozen and prepared foods, fed about twice daily.
Compatibility
A peaceful, mid-water dwarf cichlid, though males are competitive among themselves and engage in signalling displays. It suits community tanks with small tetras, pencilfish, corydoras and otocinclus, and should be kept away from tiger barbs and aggressive cichlids.
Breeding
A substrate spawner that is considered straightforward to breed. Breeding females develop dark coloration with a faint line from the face to the tail, fading to bright yellow on the belly; the female cares for eggs and fry. Males compete for females ready to spawn.