Quick Stats
| Adult Size | 6 cm |
| Minimum Tank | 15 gal |
| Temperature | 22–28°C |
| pH Range | 6.0–7.5 |
| Hardness (GH) | 4–15 dGH |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive |
| Diet | Omnivore — micro pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp |
| Schooling | 1 male + 2–3 females |
Tank Setup
The Golden-Eyed Dwarf Cichlid (Nannacara anomala) requires a minimum tank size of 15 gal. For a species this size, a larger tank is always better — more water volume means more stable parameters and a healthier environment.
Water parameters should be maintained within the following ranges: temperature 22–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, and hardness 4–15 dGH. These are relatively tolerant fish that adapt to a range of conditions.
Provide appropriate hiding places, a suitable substrate, and planted areas to match the natural behaviour of this species.
Tank Mates
Golden-Eyed Dwarf Cichlid are semi-aggressive fish. Choose tankmates carefully — they may not be suitable for all community setups.
Compatible tank mates include: Corydoras, Harlequin Rasbora, Otocinclus, Bristlenose Pleco, Lemon Tetra. Always ensure all species share similar water parameter requirements before mixing.
Schooling requirements: 1 male + 2–3 females. Keeping them in adequate numbers is essential for their wellbeing.
Diet & Feeding
Golden-Eyed Dwarf Cichlid are Omnivore. Feed a varied diet to ensure optimal health and colouration.
Omnivore — micro pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp
Feed small amounts 1–2 times daily. Only provide what the fish can consume within 2–3 minutes to prevent overfeeding and water quality issues. Supplement with live or frozen foods for optimal health and colour.
Common Health Issues
Like all aquarium fish, Golden-Eyed Dwarf Cichlid can be susceptible to common diseases including ich (white spot disease), fin rot, and bacterial infections. This species is generally hardy and disease-resistant when kept in good conditions.
Prevention is always better than treatment. Maintain stable water parameters, avoid overfeeding, quarantine new fish before adding them to the main tank, and perform regular water changes. A regular maintenance routine will prevent most health issues.
If disease does occur, isolate affected fish in a quarantine tank and treat appropriately. Always research medication compatibility before use — some treatments are toxic to invertebrates and scaleless fish.
Breeding
Breeding Golden-Eyed Dwarf Cichlid is possible in the home aquarium.
Provide appropriate breeding conditions — planted areas with fine-leaved plants. Condition breeding pairs with high-quality foods before attempting to spawn them.
Many Golden-Eyed Dwarf Cichlid will breed readily without intervention. Be prepared to remove eggs or fry if you want to raise them — adult fish may eat their own young.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Golden-Eyed Dwarf Cichlid need?
A Golden-Eyed Dwarf Cichlid needs a minimum tank size of 15 gal. Larger is always better — more water volume means more stable water parameters and healthier fish.
Are Golden-Eyed Dwarf Cichlid easy to keep?
Golden-Eyed Dwarf Cichlid are rated as Easy difficulty. Beginners can keep them successfully with proper research and a cycled tank.
What do Golden-Eyed Dwarf Cichlid eat?
Golden-Eyed Dwarf Cichlid are Omnivore. Feed a varied diet including micro pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp.
Can Golden-Eyed Dwarf Cichlid live with other fish?
Golden-Eyed Dwarf Cichlid are semi-aggressive. Compatible tankmates include: Corydoras, Harlequin Rasbora, Otocinclus, Bristlenose Pleco, Lemon Tetra. Always research compatibility before mixing species.