These delightful cichlids, native to the Amazon River basin in Brazil, thrive in pairs within a softwater aquarium. Perfect for community tanks, they add vibrancy with their subtle territorial behaviour during breeding. Offering a maximum size of 9cm, they prefer water temperatures of 22-26°C and soft, acidic conditions. With their peaceful demeanour and varied diet of flakes, granules, and frozen foods, they make an ideal addition to any aquarium.
Laetacara curviceps
£8.50
Description
These charming Laetacara curviceps, Dwarf Flag Acaras, thrive in pairs within a well-furnished softwater aquarium. Known for their peaceful demeanour, they are among the best choices for community dwarf cichlids, though they can become territorial during breeding.
Indigenous to the lower Amazon River basin, Dwarf Flag Acaras are often found in slow-moving waters with dense marginal vegetation. To replicate their natural habitat, maintain them in a mature aquarium with soft to neutral water conditions. Utilise a dark sand substrate and provide ample shady hiding spots among driftwood, caves, and dense plantings. Floating plants can help diffuse lighting. Efficient filtration with gentle water movement is ideal, along with regular partial water changes to maintain optimal water quality.
Compatible tankmates include peaceful species of small to medium size, such as Corydoras catfish, hatchetfish, tetras, and suckermouth catfish.
The scientific name ‘Laetacara’ translates to ‘smiling/happy cichlid,’ reflecting the delightful appearance of these fish. Also known as Dwarf Flag Cichlid, Sheepshead Acara, or Smiling Acara, their coloration can vary greatly based on factors like original collection location, health, and mood.
Keep them nourished with a diverse diet, including frozen foods like vitamin/Spirulina-enriched brine shrimp, white mosquito larvae, bloodworms, Mysis, and daphnia. Offer various dried foods such as flakes, green flakes, crisps, and slow-sinking granules or pellets.
