Nannacara annomala Dwarf Cichlid (1.25-1.5”)

Scientific Name: Nannacara anomala

Maximum Size and Lifespan:
Males typically grow up to about 3 inches (7.5 cm), while females remain smaller at around 2 inches (5 cm). With proper care, they can live between 5–7 years in captivity.

Recommended Aquarium Size, Water Changes, and Care:
A minimum tank size of 10 gallons is recommended for a pair, 20+ gallons is best if keeping them in community setups. Provide plenty of hiding spaces with driftwood, caves, and plants, as they appreciate shelter and territories. Water should be well-filtered and stable, with parameters ideally kept at:

• Temperature: 72–79°F (22–26°C)

• pH: 6.0–7.5
  

Regular maintenance is crucial. Weekly water changes of 25–30% help maintain high water quality, as Nannacara anomala are sensitive to poor conditions.

Tankmates:
They are considered one of the more peaceful dwarf cichlids, though males may become territorial, especially during breeding. Suitable tankmates include tetras, rasboras, pencilfish, Corydoras, and small peaceful catfish and plecos. Avoid aggressive or much larger fish, as well as other highly territorial cichlids.

Diet:
They are omnivorous, with a preference for protein-rich foods. Offer a varied diet consisting of high-quality flakes or micro-pellets, supplemented with frozen brine shrimp and bloodworms. Vegetation-based foods like spirulina flakes can also be given occasionally for balanced diet.

Overview:
The Golden Dwarf Cichlid (Nannacara anomala) is a small, hardy, and relatively peaceful dwarf cichlid suitable for aquarists who want an interesting species without the high aggression of many other cichlids. Males are larger and more colorful, displaying shimmering blue-green and gold hues, while females are more subdued in coloration but take on striking patterns during breeding. Their manageable size and adaptability make them a popular choice for planted and community aquariums.

Natural Environment:
In the wild, they are native to slow-moving and still waters of the Guianas in South America, often inhabiting streams, creeks, and floodplain lagoons. Their habitats are usually shaded with plenty of leaf litter, driftwood, and aquatic vegetation, with soft, acidic water conditions.

Breeding:
Breeding Nannacara anomala is relatively straightforward in captivity. They are cave or shelter spawners, with females typically guarding the eggs and fry. A breeding pair should be provided with caves, pots, or other shelters for spawning. Females lay up to 100–200 eggs, which hatch in 2–3 days depending on temperature. The female fiercely protects the fry while the male guards the territory. Once free-swimming, fry can be fed with infusoria or newly hatched brine shrimp. Unlike many cichlids, the female takes on the primary role of caring for the young, making them a fascinating species for breeders.