Description

A Guide to Keeping Nanochromis splendens

The Nanochromis splendens, also known as the Splendid or Dainty Dwarf Cichlid, is a fascinating and colourful freshwater fish from West Africa. They are known for their striking colours, especially during breeding, and their unique behaviour. Unlike some of their more aggressive cichlid cousins, these fish are generally peaceful, making them a great addition to a community tank with the right tank mates.

Key Information

• Size: Up to 8 cm (3 inches)
• Lifespan: 5-8 years
• Water Temperature: 23-27°C (73-81°F)
• Water pH: 4.5-6.5 (Soft, acidic water is preferred)
• Origin: Democratic Republic of Congo, Africa
• Diet: Carnivore (prefers live or frozen foods)
• Tank Size: Minimum 60 litres (15 gallons) for a pair

Tank Setup and Care

Nanochromis splendens are shy and territorial fish, so it’s essential to set up their tank to make them feel secure.

• Substrate: A soft, sandy substrate is ideal as these fish often sift through it for food and to create breeding sites.
• Decorations: Provide plenty of hiding places using driftwood, rocks, and caves. This not only gives them shelter but also helps them establish territories. The addition of botanicals like dried leaves and alder cones can help to naturally lower the pH and mimic their native habitat.
• Filtration: A gentle filter that doesn’t create a strong current is best, as they are used to slow-moving waters. A sponge filter is an excellent choice.
• Plants: Live plants are highly recommended. Tall, dense plants like Java Fern and Amazon Sword can offer cover, while floating plants can diffuse the light, which they prefer.

Diet and Feeding

In their natural habitat, they are carnivorous and feed on small invertebrates. In the aquarium, they thrive on a varied diet of live and frozen foods.

• Live Foods: Brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms are all excellent choices.
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, bloodworms, and high-quality flake or pellet food can also be used.
• Avoid: Nanochromis splendens can be picky eaters, and it’s important to provide a varied diet to ensure they get all the nutrients they need.

Breeding

Breeding Nanochromis splendens can be a rewarding experience. The female is generally smaller and more colourful, with a vibrant yellow or orange belly, especially when she is ready to spawn. The male is typically larger and less intensely coloured.

• Breeding Tank: A separate breeding tank is often a good idea to protect the fry from other tank mates.
• Spawning: They are cave spawners. The pair will choose a cave or a sheltered area to lay their eggs, and the female will guard them fiercely.
• Parental Care: The male and female both take part in guarding the eggs and fry. Once the fry are free-swimming, they can be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp or microworms.