PAIR Guianacara Dacrya – Bandit Cichlid – South American Cichlid (1 MALE & 1 FEMALE)

The Guianacara Dacrya, also known as the Bandit Cichlid, is a captivating South American Cichlid that will add beauty and intrigue to any aquarium. With its striking appearance and unique behaviors, this dwarf cichlid is a popular choice among fish enthusiasts.

Scientific and Common Names:
– Scientific Name: Guianacara Dacrya
– Common Name: Bandit Cichlid

Habitat:
The Guianacara Dacrya is native to the rivers and streams of South America, specifically found in the Guiana Shield region. It prefers slow-moving waters with sandy or muddy substrates and plenty of hiding spots such as rocks, driftwood, and plants.

Tank Setup:
To provide a suitable habitat for the Bandit Cichlid, it is recommended to have a tank size of at least 30 gallons (113 liters) for a pair. The tank should be decorated with rocks, driftwood, and live plants to mimic its natural environment. A sandy or fine gravel substrate is ideal. The addition of caves and hiding spots will help create territories for the fish.

Diet and Nutrition:
The Guianacara Dacrya is omnivorous and will accept a variety of foods. Its diet should consist of high-quality pellets or flakes as a staple, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small insects. Offering a varied diet will ensure the fish receive all the necessary nutrients for optimal health and coloration.

Size and Growth Rate:
The Bandit Cichlid is a dwarf cichlid species, with males reaching a maximum size of around 4-5 inches (10-13 cm) and females slightly smaller. They have a relatively slow growth rate compared to other cichlid species.

Behavioral Traits:
The Guianacara Dacrya is known for its unique behaviors, making it a fascinating addition to any aquarium. It is generally peaceful but can become territorial during breeding. Males may display vibrant colors and develop elongated fins to attract females. They are also known to exhibit interesting courtship rituals and parental care.

Care Level:
The Bandit Cichlid is considered to have a moderate care level. It requires a well-maintained aquarium with stable water parameters and regular water changes. Providing suitable hiding spots and territories will help reduce aggression and stress.

Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding the Guianacara Dacrya can be achieved in a well-maintained aquarium with proper water conditions and suitable breeding sites such as caves or flat rocks. The female will lay eggs, and both parents will guard and care for the fry. It is recommended to provide plenty of hiding spots for the fry to seek shelter.

Health and Disease Prevention:
To ensure the health of the Bandit Cichlid, it is important to maintain good water quality, perform regular water changes, and provide a balanced diet. Monitoring water parameters such as temperature, pH, and ammonia levels is crucial. Quarantining new fish before introducing them to the main tank can help prevent the spread of diseases.

Optimal Water Conditions:
– Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
– pH: 6.0-7.5
– Hardness: 5-15 dGH

Lifespan:
With proper care, the Guianacara Dacrya can live for 5-8 years or even longer in captivity.

Additional Interesting Facts:
– The Bandit Cichlid gets its common name from the black “bandit mask” pattern around its eyes.
– It is a peaceful cichlid species that can be kept with other non-aggressive fish of similar size.
– The Guianacara Dacrya is known to exhibit interesting behaviors such as digging in the substrate and rearranging tank decorations.
– It is a relatively rare and sought-after species in the aquarium trade, making it a prized addition to any collection.

Buy now and enjoy the beauty of this stunning fish in your own aquarium. Our 24-hour courier service ensures your fish arrive safely with poly boxes and heat packs during colder months. Combine multiple items in one order to streamline shipping. In the unfortunate event of any fish arriving deceased, promptly inform us with photographic evidence, and we will refund you or send you a replacement.