All fish / Cichlidae

Two-spot Nannacara

Nannacara bimaculata

Also known as twospot nannacara, two spot dwarf cichlid, nannacara bimaculata, bimaculata cichlid, ナンナカラ・ビマクラータ, 双斑娜娜卡拉

A small, stocky dwarf cichlid from the Guianas with a brownish body, metallic green to blue scale edges and two dark spots along the flank. Females turn a striking dark chequered pattern when guarding young. It is kept for its interesting parental behaviour and its modest size, which suits planted soft water tanks.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Semi

Adult size

6 cm

Temperature

23 to 28 °C

pH

5.5 to 7

Smallest tank

60 litres

Keep as

One pair, or one male with two females in a larger tank

Diet

Carnivore: small live and frozen foods such as bloodworm, daphnia and brine shrimp, plus quality granules

Swims

Bottom of the tank

Lifespan

4 to 6 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Guyana and Suriname (Essequibo and coastal river basins)

Breeding

A cave or substrate spawner that lays eggs on a hard surface in a sheltered spot, with the female doing most of the guarding of eggs and fry. Breeding is fairly easy in soft, slightly acidic water, though the male may need to be removed or given cover as the female can harass him.

Good to know

Often confused with Nannacara anomala and other Nannacara species, so check identity when buying. Pairs become territorial when spawning, so avoid very small or bottom dwelling tankmates.