Fish

Nanochromis transvestitus

IntermediateFreshwater

Origin: Nanochromis transvestitus is a dwarf cichlid from Lake Mai-Ndombe in the Congo basin (DR Congo). It inhabits very soft, acidic blackwater with a dark bottom, driftwood, and leaf litter.

Also known as: Congo dwarf cichlid, Nanochromis transvestitus

Fact sheet

Size: 7 cm
Lifespan: 5 years
Minimum tank size: 80 L
Temperature: 24–27 °C
pH: 5–6.5
Hardness GH: 1–8 °dH
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Social behavior: In pairs
Swimming zone: Bottom
Diet: Carnivore
Jumps out: No
Eats plants: No

Overview

Nanochromis transvestitus is a striking West African dwarf cichlid famous for its 'reversed' sexual dimorphism: females are brighter and showier than males, with contrasting black-and-white vertical bars on the tail and a purple-red belly. Hence the species name 'transvestite'. It is a cave-spawning species for a soft-water tank that forms pairs with parental care. It needs very soft, acidic water and cave-like cover. It suits keepers experienced with soft-water dwarf cichlids.

Appearance

The body is stocky, up to 6–7 cm (males) and 4–5 cm (females). Unusually, the females are brighter: they have a purple-red belly and contrasting black-and-white bars on the tail fin. Males are larger but plainer, greyish-blue. Such 'reversed' dimorphism is rare among cichlids.

Care

A tank of at least 80 L with very soft acidic water, dark substrate, driftwood, leaf litter, and cave-like cover. Temperature 24–27 °C, pH 5.0–6.5, hardness GH 1–8. Clean soft water and peat filtration are needed. The species is sensitive to hard, alkaline water.

Feeding

An omnivorous micro-predator. It takes live and frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, and cyclops, plus small cichlid pellets. Feed once or twice daily in small portions.

Compatibility

Territorial around the nest, especially the females. Keep a pair in a species or soft-water tank with small calm upper-level fish (small characins). Large or aggressive tankmates are unsuitable. Cover is needed for each fish.

Breeding

Cave spawning with parental care. The female lays eggs in a cave and guards the clutch and fry, showing bright colour; the male defends the territory. Very soft, acidic water is essential. Breeding requires experience.

Fun facts

The species name transvestitus comes from the 'reversed' dimorphism: females are brighter and showier than males, atypical for fish. It is endemic to Lake Mai-Ndombe with its very soft, acidic blackwater. The black-and-white tail bars of the female are her hallmark.