Striped dwarf cichlid - Nannacara taenia

Scientific name: Nannacara taenia

Common name: Striped dwarf cichlid

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 5 - 6 cm (1.97 - 2.36 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.1 - 7.3

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 2 - 10°N (35.71 - 178.57ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 21 - 25 °C (69.8 - 77°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: Middle levels

Food and feeding

Striped dwarf cichlids are greedy feeders so will accept all foods offered. Use a quality flake or small pellets for the staple diet but also offer treats twice a week of live or frozen foods. Blood worms and brine shrimp are ideal.

Origin

South America; Striped dwarf cichlids are found in the waterways of Brazil.

Sexing

Males tend to be slightly smaller and do not display the black stripe along their body like the female does.

Breeding

Add some upturned plant pots to the tank or create caves from rocks to provide spawning sites for the fish. The female will deposit the eggs on the roof of the cave or pot and guard the nest. After 48 hours the eggs should hatch and 3 days later the fry should be free swimming and looking for food. They will accept crushed flake or newly hatched brine shrimp.

Lifespan

The expected life span for Nannacara taenia is 5 years.

Short description

This species is not often seen in the supplier’s listings but many amateur breeders will probably have them. Their colouration may seem dull compared to other dwarf cichlids but they are an interesting fish to keep.

Pictures

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