Edit Anomalochromis thomasi
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Name
Scientific name
Anomalochromis thomasi
Described by
Authority Boulenger, Year 1915, Bracketed
Family
Cichlidae
Common names
African Butterfly Cichlid, Afrikanischer Schmetterlingsbuntbarsch
Photograph credits
All 4 credited
Summary
The African butterfly cichlid, Anomalochromis thomasi, is a dwarf cichlid from forest streams in Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia. Juvenile…
Size and aquarium
Maximum size
80mm, standard length
Aquarium size
Minimum length 80 cm, Minimum depth 30 cm
Water
Water conditions
Temperature 23–27°C, pH 5.5–7.5
Hardness
1–15dGH
Conductivity
Not recorded
Behaviour
Temperament
Peaceful
Social needs
A shoal or group
Community suitability
Community-safe
Where it lives
Countries, regions, rivers and lakes
Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Konkouré, Saint John, Waanje
Writing
Etymology
Anomalochromis: from the Latin anomalos, meaning 'abnormal, irregular', in reference to the unusual preopercular-mandibular lateral-line canal, which lacks a p…
Distribution
Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia.
Habitat
It inhabits forest streams, characterised by large amounts of overhanging vegetation. The water is often tea-coloured, being heavily stained with tannins from …
Aquarium size
A tank with base dimensions of 80 ∗ 30 cm is adequate for a small group.
Maintenance
The aquarium should contain flat rocks to act as spawning surfaces and plenty of hiding places. Clay pot caves, roots and pieces of driftwood can all be used. …
Water conditions
Not written yet
Diet
Unfussy and will accept most foods. A good quality cichlid pellet can be fed as staple, but ensure the diet is kept varied with regular feedings of live and fr…
Behaviour and compatibility
Very peaceful for a cichlid, but is territorial when spawning. Don't be tempted to keep it with very vigorous species as thomasi is a shy and retiring little f…
Sexual dimorphism
Males are larger than females and tend to have less distinct black markings. Females are noticeably round in the belly when full of eggs.
Reproduction
Easy. Substrate spawners. A single pair can be bred in a 24" aquarium, with a larger tank being required for 2 or more pairs. Unlike many West African dwarf ci…
Notes
Often overlooked when seen for sale, as juveniles can appear a little dull, A. thomasi is actually one of the best choices for the newcomer to dwarf cichlids. …
References
References
No references