Golden Dwarf Cichlid (Nannacara anomala)

Family: Cichlidae

Golden Dwarf Cichlid — a Cichlidae from South America, feisty around breeding time; plan territory in advance. Reaches 4.2–6.2 cm; pairs or harems in tanks with broken sightlines. 22–25 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
22–25 °C
pH
6–8
GH hardness
5–19 dGH
Adult length
4.2–6.2 cm
Minimum tank
46 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Feisty around breeding time; plan territory in advance
Origin
South America

Species overview

Nannacara anomala is a Cichlidae from South America. In the wild it prefers lakes and slow rivers with structure; in the aquarium it stays feisty around breeding time. Plan on 4.2–6.2 cm of adult fish at 22–25 °C. In a community tank it pairs well with Other cichlids of similar size and temperament.

Native biotope

Habitat
Lakes and slow rivers with structure
Flow
Still to gentle current
Dissolved O₂
Moderate

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Sand with rock piles
Hardscape
Stones, caves and broken lines of sight
Plants
Hardy species that tolerate digging

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Pairs or harems in tanks with broken sightlines
Diet
Hearty eater; feed pellets with regular vegetable matter
Recommended tankmates
  • Other cichlids of similar size and temperament — Balance aggression across the tank
Avoid keeping with
  • Delicate planted-tank species — Uprooted and outcompeted

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Often striking; males larger and brighter
Breeding method
Both parents guard eggs and fry for weeks

Frequently asked questions

Is Golden Dwarf Cichlid easy to keep?

Difficulty: moderate. Feisty around breeding time; plan territory in advance. Pairs or harems in tanks with broken sightlines.

What temperature and water chemistry does Golden Dwarf Cichlid need?

Set the heater to 22–25 °C and avoid swings. pH 6–8, GH 5–19 dGH suit it.

How big does Golden Dwarf Cichlid get, and what tank size?

Expect 4.2–6.2 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 46 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Golden Dwarf Cichlid eat?

Hearty eater; feed pellets with regular vegetable matter. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Golden Dwarf Cichlid live with other fish?

Feisty around breeding time; plan territory in advance. Recommended tankmates: Other cichlids of similar size and temperament — Balance aggression across the tank. Avoid Delicate planted-tank species — Uprooted and outcompeted.

Where does Golden Dwarf Cichlid come from?

Native to South America, where it lives in lakes and slow rivers with structure. Still to gentle current; Moderate.

Does Golden Dwarf Cichlid jump?

Not a noted jumper — a standard cover still keeps dust and spray in.

How does Golden Dwarf Cichlid breed?

Both parents guard eggs and fry for weeks. Often striking; males larger and brighter.