Dwarf flag cichlid - Laetacara curviceps

Scientific name: Laetacara curviceps

Common name: Dwarf flag cichlid

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 4 - 5 cm (1.57 - 1.97 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 7.8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 0 - 18°N (0 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 28 °C (71.6 - 82.4°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Origin

The Dwarf Flag Cichlid, known scientifically as Laetacara curviceps, originates from the Amazon tributaries in South America. These peaceful fish are native to the calm, slow-moving waters of the Amazon Basin, where they thrive among dense vegetation and soft substrates.

Lifespan

With proper care, Dwarf Flag Cichlids typically live between 2 and 4 years.

Short description

Commonly known by names like Flag Acara, Sheepshead Acara, and Smiling Acara, the Dwarf Flag Cichlid is a versatile and hardy fish. To ensure you’re getting the right species, it's best to refer to its Latin name, Laetacara curviceps. These cichlids are great for beginners, especially the tank-bred varieties, which are easier to care for. Even wild-caught specimens can be suitable for beginners if given the right water conditions and care. Dwarf Flag Cichlids are an excellent choice for planted tanks and can be housed with similarly sized fish that have comparable water requirements. However, avoid keeping them with smaller tank mates, as they might see them as food. Each Dwarf Flag Cichlid has unique markings and colors, making them easily distinguishable from one another. They are generally peaceful but can become territorial during breeding. If aggression becomes an issue, consider moving the breeding pair to a separate tank. These cichlids are plant-friendly and can be a great addition to a community aquarium.

Food and feeding

Dwarf Flag Cichlids thrive on a diet of live or frozen foods such as finely chopped earthworms, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and tubifex. Being omnivores, they will also accept high-quality flake or small pellet food. Offering a variety of foods will help maintain their vibrant colors and ensure they receive the necessary nutrients.

Sexing

Male Dwarf Flag Cichlids are typically more colorful and have longer dorsal and anal fins compared to females.

Breeding

Dwarf Flag Cichlids, or Laetacara curviceps, can begin breeding at a young age. The breeding pair should be conditioned with live foods to encourage spawning. The male will prepare a spawning site, usually on flat rocks or a section of the tank glass. After spawning, the eggs will hatch within a few days, but the fry won’t start swimming freely until 5-7 days later. Both parents share the responsibility of protecting the fry, sometimes moving them around the tank using their mouths. The fry should be fed newly hatched brine shrimp or finely crushed flake food. For best results, it’s advisable to use a separate breeding tank, allowing the parents to focus on raising the fry without the distraction of other tank mates.

Pictures

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.