Transvestitus Dwarf (Nanochromis transvestitus) Care Guide
Nanochromis transvestitus is a tiny Congo dwarf cichlid with reverse sexual dichromatism, endemic to Lake Mai-Ndombe and requiring very soft, acidic water.
Overview
Nanochromis transvestitus is a small dwarf cichlid notable for reverse sexual dichromatism: unusually for cichlids, the female is the more colourful sex. Females display bold black-and-white banding on the anal and caudal fins and a bright red abdomen, while males are largely greyish. The species name refers to this reversal of the usual cichlid colour pattern.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Nanochromis
- Scientific name: Nanochromis transvestitus
Habitat
According to FishBase and Wikipedia, the species is endemic to Lake Mai-Ndombe (formerly Lake Leopold II) in the middle Congo River basin of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is a demersal freshwater fish recorded at around 1 m depth and feeds on small benthic invertebrates. The lake water is naturally very soft and acidic.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 L
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 4.5-6.5 (FishBase records 5.0-6.0)
- GH: 2-5 °dGH
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
Diet
The species is an omnivore that feeds on small benthic invertebrates in the wild. In the aquarium it accepts small frozen and live foods together with quality prepared foods, fed twice daily.
Compatibility
This is a peaceful, bottom-dwelling dwarf cichlid that pairs best with small, very peaceful soft-water companions such as small Congo tetras. It should be kept away from Rift Lake mbuna, hard-water cichlids and larger boisterous fish that would outcompete it.
Breeding
Nanochromis transvestitus is a pair-bonding cave spawner. Breeding requires the very soft, acidic conditions of its native lake, which makes it an advanced project.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Endangered (assessed 16 February 2009). Wikipedia notes the species is particularly threatened by mosquito netting used for fishing on Lake Mai-Ndombe.