Golden Dwarf Cichlid (Nannacara anomala), - Tank Bred

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This dwarf cichlid is one of the most peaceful cichlid species available—and a standout choice for planted aquariums! The Golden Dwarf Cichlid (Nannacara anomala) is an ideal beginner-friendly fish with a lot of personality and plenty of potential for breeding projects. Males feature a glowing iridescent blue body with golden-yellow fins, while females show a lovely yellow base color and a striking checkerboard pattern during spawning.

This species thrives in well-structured tanks with sandy substrate, driftwood, clay pots, or rock formations to provide shelter. Though peaceful overall, Golden Dwarf Cichlids can become territorial during breeding. They do well in community tanks when given ample space and hiding places but should not be kept with dwarf shrimp or other small, delicate inverts. More durable shrimp and snails may be suitable in larger tanks with caution.

Feeding is easy—this fish eagerly accepts high-quality dry, frozen, and live meaty foods, with occasional vegetable matter for balance. We are proud to offer sexed young adult tank-bred specimens of this colorful and underrated gem!

What We Love About This Fish:

• Beautiful neon blue sheen in males and vivid checkerboard spawning pattern in females

• Peaceful disposition makes it one of the most community-friendly dwarf cichlids

• Hardy and easy to care for—excellent for breeding projects

• Does well in planted aquariums with natural decor

• Adds dynamic behavior and color without aggressive tendencies

Natural Habitat:

Native to Suriname and other parts of northern South America, the Golden Dwarf Cichlid inhabits slow-moving freshwater streams with sandy bottoms, scattered leaf litter, and submerged roots or driftwood. These calm, warm waters are typically acidic and low in hardness, making planted aquariums an ideal home.

Aquascaping:

• Plants: Amazon Swords, Cryptocoryne, Java Fern, or Anubias

• Hardscape: Smooth stones, driftwood, clay pots, or rock caves

• Botanicals: Indian Almond Leaves, Casuarina Pods, or Alder Cones for tannin-rich water and extra refuge. Our Botanical Breeder Combo Pack is a great start to giving these fish a sense of security and a place to call home.

Diet and Feeding:

This carnivorous species thrives on a variety of high-protein foods. Feed a mix of high-quality dry pellets or flakes alongside frozen or live treats such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. Supplement with blanched vegetables or spirulina-based foods a few times a week for complete nutrition.

Recommended Food:
🔹 Ultra Fresh Betta Pro Shrimp Patties – Shrimp Delight
A protein-rich, color-enhancing pellet made with whole shrimp and natural ingredients. Ideal for dwarf cichlids and small carnivores, this food supports energy, coloration, and overall vitality.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

Best kept with other peaceful species in a well-decorated aquarium. Avoid fin-nipping fish or other aggressive cichlids. Not recommended with dwarf shrimp or nano inverts, but may coexist with hardy snails or larger shrimp in larger setups.

NOT Shrimp Safe:

❌ No – not safe with dwarf shrimp. May eat or harass shrimp, especially in smaller tanks.

Breeding:

Golden Dwarf Cichlids are substrate spawners and often breed in caves or crevices. Females become especially colorful during spawning and guard their fry attentively. Minimal tank mates and soft, slightly acidic water conditions help increase success.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 72° – 77° F (22° – 25° C)

• pH: 6.0 – 7.5

• KH: 0 – 10 dKH

• Minimum Tank Size: 15–20 gallons for a trio

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Carnivorous with some vegetable supplementation

• Social Behavior: Peaceful, with mild territoriality during breeding

• Origin: Tank bred Imported

• Average Adult Size: Males: 3 inches (7.6 cm), Females: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm)

• Average Purchase Size: 1.2 – 1.6 inches (3 – 4 cm)

Add a peaceful pop of color to your tank with this underrated dwarf cichlid—great for planted tanks and breeding setups alike!

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