Banded Dwarf Cichlid

Nannacara taenia

Family : Cichlidae

FishFreshwaterdwarf cichlid

The Banded Dwarf Cichlid is a small dwarf cichlid with striped patterns, native to blackwater environments of South America. It is less common in aquariums but very interesting.

Popularity
Biotope specialist
requires biotope recreation
Availability
Specialty only
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern
Biotope
South America
Hors bassin amazonien : Paraná, Orénoque, Andes.

Description

Nannacara taenia grows up to 5 cm. It has dark vertical bands on a light body. Males are more colorful than females. It is a shy and peaceful fish, preferring dimly lit aquariums with acidic water. It breeds by laying eggs on substrate. Parents care for the fry. It is sensitive to nitrates and requires very clean water.

Habitat

Region :

Blackwater acidic environments, swampy areas and slow streams with plenty of leaf litter and roots.

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2428 °C
pH56.5
GH15 °dGH
KH03 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 10 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 0.3 mg/L

Care

Difficulty
3/5
Diet
Carnivore
Min. tank
60 L
Min. group
2
Adult size
5 cm
Lifespan
3 years
Temperament
Peaceful
Propagation
Substrate spawner

Care notes

Temperature 24-28°C, pH 5.0-6.5, GH 1-5, KH 0-3. Minimum tank 60 liters. Carnivorous diet: small insects, brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms. Compatible with other blackwater fish (tetras, small cichlids). Avoid active fish. Provide hiding spots (roots, oak leaves). Very soft and acidic water. Frequent water changes with RO water. Breeding possible in pairs.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References