African butterfly cichlid

Introduction

The African butterfly cichlid (Anomalochromis thomasi) is a captivating freshwater fish native to West Africa. Renowned for its vibrant coloration and relatively peaceful demeanor, this species has become a favorite among aquarists seeking a manageable yet striking addition to their tanks. With proper care, the African butterfly cichlid can thrive, offering both visual appeal and engaging behavior to hobbyists.

What makes the African butterfly cichlid appealing to aquarists?

Its combination of vivid colors, manageable size, and generally peaceful nature makes it an excellent choice for both beginner and intermediate fishkeepers.

Is the African butterfly cichlid suitable for community tanks?

Yes, when housed with compatible species, it can coexist peacefully in community aquariums.

Care and Environment

Providing optimal care for the African butterfly cichlid involves replicating its natural habitat and understanding its specific needs.

What is the minimum tank size for an African butterfly cichlid?

A minimum tank size of 80 liters is recommended for a small group, ensuring adequate space for swimming and territory establishment.

What are the ideal water parameters for this species?

Maintain a temperature between 23–27°C, a pH of 5.5–7.5, and water hardness ranging from 18–268 ppm to mimic their natural environment.

Effective filtration is crucial to maintain water quality, and moderate lighting is sufficient. Incorporate flat rocks, caves, and driftwood to provide hiding spots and spawning surfaces. A dark substrate with some leaf litter can enhance the natural feel of the tank.

As omnivores, African butterfly cichlids accept a variety of foods. A balanced diet includes high-quality cichlid pellets supplemented with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. Feed small portions two to three times daily, ensuring all food is consumed within a few minutes.

While generally peaceful, they can become territorial during breeding. Providing ample hiding spots and maintaining a group of six or more can help diffuse aggression.

How can I reduce aggression during breeding periods?

Ensuring sufficient hiding places and keeping them in larger groups can help minimize territorial disputes.

Origin and Habitat

Native to the forest streams of Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Liberia, the African butterfly cichlid thrives in slow-flowing, tannin-rich waters shaded by dense vegetation. These environments are characterized by soft, acidic conditions with substrates composed of sand, rocks, and decomposing leaves. The water is often tea-colored due to the presence of tannins from decaying organic matter.

What type of environment does the African butterfly cichlid prefer?

They favor slow-moving, tannin-stained waters with abundant vegetation and a substrate of sand and leaf litter.

How can I replicate their natural habitat in my aquarium?

Use a dark substrate, add driftwood and leaf litter to introduce tannins, and include plants to provide shade and hiding spots.

Temperament and Compatibility

The African butterfly cichlid is known for its relatively peaceful nature, especially compared to other cichlid species. However, they can exhibit territorial behavior during breeding periods. They are best kept in groups of six or more to diffuse potential aggression. Suitable tank mates include small characins, other African dwarf cichlids, Corydoras species, and smaller anabantoids. Avoid housing them with very vigorous or aggressive species, as their shy disposition makes them susceptible to bullying.

Can African butterfly cichlids be kept with other cichlid species?

Yes, but it's advisable to choose other peaceful dwarf cichlids to prevent aggression.

What are some ideal tank mates for this species?

Small tetras, Corydoras catfish, and peaceful anabantoids make good companions.

Interesting Facts

The African butterfly cichlid is a substrate spawner, with pairs often selecting flat rocks or leaves as spawning sites. They exhibit strong parental care, with both parents guarding the eggs and fry. Interestingly, under stress or when disturbed, they have been known to bury themselves in the substrate, sometimes up to 30 cm deep, as a defense mechanism.

How do African butterfly cichlids care for their young?

Both parents are involved in guarding and tending to the eggs and fry, showcasing strong parental instincts.

Do they have any unique behaviors?

Yes, they can bury themselves in the substrate when threatened, a behavior not commonly observed in many cichlid species.

Sources

All information in this article has been gathered from the following reputable sources:

• Seriously Fish
• Tropical Fish Keeping
• African Life