Golden dwarf cichlid

Nannacara anomala, the golden dwarf cichlid, is a small South American cichlid in the family Cichlidae, native to coastal drainages of Guyana and surrounding regions. Males are larger with a metallic golden-green sheen and iridescent scaling, while females are smaller and turn to a bold black-and-yellow checkerboard pattern when guarding fry. It is a generally peaceful dwarf cichlid outside of breeding, when the female becomes assertively protective. It suits a calm community with small, gentle tankmates and other peaceful fish. It does well in a planted aquarium with soft to moderately hard water, driftwood, caves, and leaf litter for shelter and spawning sites. An omnivore, it takes quality prepared foods along with live and frozen items such as bloodworms and brine shrimp. It is a cave-spawning species in which the devoted female tends the eggs and guards the fry, making it a rewarding breeder.