Dolphin Cichlid (Krobia guianensis)

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Guyana and Oubangui basin (Northern South America). Inhabits the Amazonian hinterland, in slow coastal "creeks", among roots and foliage in highly humic and dark waters (Blackwater).

Taxonomy and Morphology: Dolphin Cichlid (Krobia guianensis). Cichlid once classified as Aequidens. Stocky and compact build, distinctly rounded forehead (dolphin profile) and large dark eyes.

Social Behavior: The gentle Acara. Among medium-sized cichlids it is one of the most peaceful and docile. Spends its time quietly scouring the tank without ever chasing tankmates, provided it has enough wood to take shelter in.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Pale yellowish-olive base coloration, which lights up with turquoise iridescence on the flanks. Black lateral line that accentuates depending on the mood, mask under the eyes. The male is larger with pointed dorsal and anal fins, the female is smaller and stockier.

Aquarium Setup: South American Biotope Tank (minimum 100 cm / 40 inches). Fine sand on the bottom, twisted roots arranged to form visual refuges, Terminalia catappa leaves, alder cones. Robust plants recommended but not essential.

Diet and Feeding: Omnivore (Micro-predator). Almost never digs the bottom. Willingly accepts quality sinking granules, freeze-dried feeds and, essential, live or frozen prey (brine shrimp, bloodworms) to stimulate colors.

Water Quality: Prefers soft (low GH) and weakly acidic (pH 6.0-6.8) waters typical of Guianan rivers, rich in humic acids. Keeping the water clean is essential to avoid fungal diseases on the fins.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Ideal for the peaceful South American community. Insert it together with thick groups of robust characins (e.g. Hyphessobrycon), Corydoras, and Loricariids. Not recommended to pair with aggressive Central American cichlids or large earth-eaters (Geophagus) that would stress it.

Aquarium Reproduction: Open substrate spawner. The pair (often faithful) cleans a flat stone or a large piece of wood, lays and protects eggs and fry in a proud but never lethal way for the other inhabitants of the tank. They are excellent parents.

Risks and Diseases: Stress from "Bullying". Its calmness makes it an easy target for livelier species. In overly illuminated, clear or overcrowded tanks it fades, hides and can develop intestinal flagellates due to wasting.