Fish
Neon Blue Nannacara
Nannacara anomala
Origin: The neon blue nannacara is a selectively bred neon-blue form of Nannacara anomala, developed in the aquarium hobby for intensified blue colour. The parent species comes from the coastal rivers of Guyana and Suriname.
Also known as: Electric blue goldeneye cichlid, Nannacara anomala 'Neon Blue'
Fact sheet
- Size
- 8 cm
- Lifespan
- 5 years
- Minimum tank size
- 80 L
- Temperature
- 22–28 °C
- pH
- 6–7.5
- Hardness GH
- 2–15 °dH
- Temperament
- Semi-aggressive
- Social behavior
- In pairs
- Swimming zone
- Bottom, Middle
- Diet
- Carnivore
- Jumps out
- No
- Eats plants
- No
Overview
The neon blue nannacara is a bright colour line of Nannacara anomala in which males glow almost entirely electric blue and green. In care and behaviour it is identical to the standard nannacara: a relatively peaceful dwarf cichlid that forms pairs with parental care. The intensified neon colour makes males especially striking against a dark background. Keep it in a planted tank with cover and soft water. An excellent choice for lovers of bright dwarf cichlids.
Appearance
The body is as in Nannacara anomala, males up to 7–8 cm, females smaller (4–5 cm). Males shimmer almost entirely electric blue and turquoise-green, with reddish fin edging. Females are yellowish-brown, with a checkerboard pattern when spawning. The eyes have a golden sheen.
Care
A tank of at least 80 L with soft substrate, driftwood, plants, and cover. Temperature 22–28 °C, pH 6.0–7.5, hardness GH 2–15. Clean water and regular water changes are needed. Conditions are identical to Nannacara anomala.
Feeding
An omnivorous micro-predator. It takes live and frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, and cyclops, plus cichlid pellets. Feed once or twice daily in small portions.
Compatibility
A relatively peaceful dwarf cichlid, territorial around the nest. It mixes well with small characins, rasboras, and corydoras. Keep a pair or group. When spawning the pair defends its patch.
Breeding
It forms pairs with parental care, like the standard nannacara. The female guards the clutch and fry, showing a checkerboard colour. The neon colour is passed on stably with pure-line breeding.
Fun facts
The neon blue nannacara is not a separate species but a selectively bred blue line of Nannacara anomala. The intensified electric-blue colour of males is the result of deliberate selection. It is no less hardy than the parent form.