African Butterfly Cichlid

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Atypical African origins for a "dwarf" cichlid: comes from the dense coastal forests of Sierra Leone, Liberia and Guinea. Inhabits small shaded streams and slow rivers saturated with oxygen and loaded with fallen leaves and branches.

Taxonomy and Morphology: African Butterfly Cichlid. Belongs to a monotypic genus (Anomalochromis, the only one of its kind). Reaches only 6-8 cm (2.5-3 inches), presenting a stocky and compact rhomboidal shape, very similar to that of South American cichlids (like the Ramirezi).

Social Behavior: The antithesis of the classic brawling African cichlid. The Thomasi is shy, gentle and wonderfully peaceful, showing a strong attachment to its partner (stable and monogamous). Spends its time docilely exploring rocks and logs.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: As a juvenile it is a modest silver-gray, but as an adult it explodes in a kaleidoscope: golden or light brown background, embellished with perfect rows of iridescent light blue/green scales (the "sequins"). A black band crosses the eye and a black spot marks the flank.

Aquarium Setup: Excellent for modest aquariums (80 cm / 32 inches). Requires a heavily planted setup (Anubias, Bolbitis), a dark fine sand bottom and countless coconut shell or flat stone shelters. The water must be slightly amber to encourage its emergence from shelter.

Diet and Feeding: Omnivore and easy to feed. An exceptional micro-snail predator (will eradicate Physa infestations). Provide high quality sinking granules for small cichlids, to be alternated frequently with frozen prey (bloodworms, mysis).

Water Quality: Much less demanding than its dwarf cousins from South America. They tolerate pH between 6.0 and 7.5 and moderate hardness (GH 4-15). The ideal temperature is 23-27°C (73-81°F). However, they cannot stand nitrate spikes, so regular partial changes are necessary.

Compatibility and Tankmates: The perfect cichlid for a peaceful community aquarium. Splendid in African river biotope tanks with Congo Tetras and African Hatchetfish, but cohabits perfectly with small Amazonian Characins, Asian Rasboras and Corydoras. No aggressive fish in the tank.

Aquarium Reproduction: Beautiful and instructive. The pair, after meticulously cleaning a broad leaf or a smooth stone, lays up to 500 eggs. They are exemplary and cooperative parents, and will graze the clouds of tiny fry around the aquarium for weeks.

Risks and Diseases: The most serious threat is food competition or aggression by turbulent tankmates: if frightened by Botia or large Angelfish, it will hole up until it starves to death. Sensitive to skin bacteria in poorly oxygenated waters.