Golden eye Dwarf Cichlid (Nannacara anomala)

Golden Dwarf Cichlid (Nannacara anomala)

The Golden Dwarf Cichlid is one of the most peaceful dwarf cichlid species available and a fantastic choice for a planted aquarium. With their manageable size, striking appearance, and hardy nature, they make a rewarding project for both beginners and experienced aquarists.

Mature males typically develop a shimmering iridescent blue body with hints of yellow in their fins, while females tend to show more golden tones. During spawning, females often display an eye-catching checkerboard pattern. These fish are relatively easy to breed and adapt well to aquarium life.

They do best in a tank with a soft sandy substrate and plenty of hiding spots like clay pots, driftwood, and rockwork. While they appreciate the cover of live plants, they also benefit from some open swimming space. Golden Dwarf Cichlids are generally peaceful but may become territorial during breeding, so ensure there’s enough room or separation if keeping multiple fish.

Feeding them is straightforward. They’ll readily take high-quality dry, frozen, and live foods, particularly meaty options. For best health and colour, a varied diet with some added plant-based foods is ideal.

We’re pleased to offer sexed young adult specimens of this beautiful and personable species—perfect for a community setup or breeding project.

What We Like About This Species:

• Iridescent blue colouring in males; striking breeding colours in females

• Very hardy and full of character

• Straightforward to breed in the home aquarium

• Suitable for peaceful community tanks

• Plant-safe

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 22° - 25°C

• pH: 6.0 – 7.5 (tank-raised fish are quite adaptable)

• KH: 0 – 10 dKH

• Minimum Tank Size: 15–20L for a trio; a larger tank is recommended for a group

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Carnivorous – offer a mix of high-quality dry, frozen, and live foods; include some vegetable matter

• Social Behavior: Generally peaceful; females may show territorial behaviour when spawning

• Origin: Tank-bred, originally from Suriname, South America

• Adult Size: Males ~7.5 cm, Females ~4 cm

• Purchase Size: 3–4 cm