Home > Library > Species Spotlight > Aquatic > Freshwater Aquarium > Freshwater Fish > Cichlid Family > African Butterfly Cichlid (Anomalochromis Thomasi)
Scientific Name: Anomalochromis Thomasi
Common Names: African Butterfly Cichlid, Thomasi Cichlid
Temperament: Peaceful
Care Level: Moderate
Life Span: 5 to 8 years
Species Overview and Background:
- The African Butterfly Cichlid, Anomalochromis Thomasi, was first discovered in West Africa in the 1960s. Its species distribution covers areas including Sierra Leone, Guinea, Liberia, and Ivory Coast.
- In their natural habitat, African Butterfly Cichlids are found in slow-moving streams, rivers, and swamps with dense vegetation. They are often found living in small groups and are known to be territorial, especially during the breeding season.
- In the wild, they actively feed on small invertebrates, insects, and plant matter.
- African Butterfly Cichlids were introduced to the aquarium hobby in the 1970s. They have gained popularity among hobbyists due to their striking coloration, interesting behaviour, and relative ease of care.
- They are relatively common in the hobby and can be found in many aquarium stores.
- It is believed that African Butterfly Cichlids are not hybrids and are a naturally occurring species. The first individuals were likely collected from their native habitat and bred in captivity.
General Water Parameters:
- pH Range: 6.5 to 7.5
- Temperature Range: 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 82°F)
- GH Range: 5 to 12 dGH
- KH Range: 4 to 8 dKH
- TDS Range: 150 to 300 ppm
Colour & Appearance:
- African Butterfly Cichlids are relatively small, reaching an average size of 6 to 8 cm (2.5 to 3 inches) in length.
- Males are generally larger and more colourful than females. Males display vibrant blue and black coloration on their bodies, with yellow or orange highlights on their fins. Females are less colourful, usually displaying a silver or pale yellow body with faint stripes.
- There is not much variation in coloration within the species.
Care and Requirements:
- African Butterfly Cichlids are not overly demanding, but they do require specific water parameters to thrive.
- They are omnivorous and will eat a variety of foods. In captivity, they can be fed high-quality flake or pellet food designed for cichlids. Additionally, offering live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia will help provide a varied diet.
- They are hardy fish and can tolerate a range of water conditions. However, it is important to maintain stable water parameters to avoid stress and disease.
- African Butterfly Cichlids are active during the day and spend their time exploring their surroundings. They may occasionally hide among plants or rockwork, but they are generally visible and active.
Diet:
- African Butterfly Cichlids are omnivorous and will accept a wide range of foods.
- In addition to commercial flake or pellet food, it is recommended to provide them with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, and small insects.
- They may also feed on microorganisms and biofilm present in the tank, especially when they are young.
Ideal Tank Setup:
- The ideal tank setup for African Butterfly Cichlids should mimic their natural habitat. A tank of at least 75 litres (20 gallons) is suitable for a small group of these fish.
They prefer a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spots created by driftwood, rocks, and caves. Dense vegetation, such as Java moss or Anubias, can be added to provide additional cover and create a more natural environment.
- African Butterfly Cichlids are not particularly sensitive to water flow, so a moderate water flow created by a quality filter or powerhead is sufficient.
- They can be kept in tanks with sand or fine gravel substrate, as they may sift through the substrate in search of food. Providing some smooth rocks and caves will also give them places to establish territories and spawn.
- Lighting: African Butterfly Cichlids do not have any specific lighting requirements. However, providing a natural day-night cycle through regular lighting schedules is beneficial for their overall well-being.
- Compatibility: When selecting tankmates, consider species that are peaceful and can tolerate the occasional territorial behaviour of African Butterfly Cichlids. Research the temperament, size, and specific requirements of potential tankmates to ensure they can coexist harmoniously.
- Tank decoration: African Butterfly Cichlids appreciate a well-decorated tank with plenty of hiding spots and territories. Use rocks, caves, and driftwood to create structures that provide ample hiding places and mimic their natural habitat. Live plants, such as Java fern or Anubias, can also be added to enhance the aesthetics and provide additional cover.
- Social behaviour: African Butterfly Cichlids are generally peaceful and can be kept in small groups. A minimum group size of four to six individuals is recommended to reduce the chances of aggression and allow them to exhibit their natural behaviours.
- Environmental enrichment: Providing environmental enrichment, such as floating plants, caves, and occasional rearrangement of tank decor, can stimulate their natural behaviours and keep them mentally and physically active.
Compatible Tankmates:
- African Butterfly Cichlids are generally peaceful but can become territorial during breeding. Therefore, it is important to choose compatible tankmates that can tolerate their presence.
- Suitable tankmates include peaceful community fish such as tetras, rasboras, peaceful catfish species like Corydoras, and small peaceful cichlids like Apistogramma species.
- It is best to avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping species that may stress or harm them.
Sexing:
- Male African Butterfly Cichlids are typically larger and more colourful than females. Males display vibrant blue and black coloration with yellow or orange highlights on their fins. They may also have extended finnage, especially on the dorsal and anal fins.
- Females, on the other hand, are smaller and less colourful. They usually have a silver or pale yellow body with faint stripes.
Breeding:
- African Butterfly Cichlids are relatively easy to breed in captivity. To encourage breeding, it is recommended to provide them with suitable spawning sites such as caves or flat rocks.
- The ideal breeding setup would consist of a separate breeding tank with slightly warmer water and plenty of hiding spots. A flat rock or slate can be placed at the bottom of the tank as a potential spawning site.
- The pair will engage in courtship behaviour, with the male displaying vibrant colours and performing elaborate fin displays to attract the female.
- After spawning, the female will lay the eggs on the chosen substrate, and the male will fertilize them. The eggs will hatch within a few days, and the parents will guard and care for the fry.
- It is important to provide ample food for the fry, including newly hatched brine shrimp or finely crushed flake food.
- Successful breeding can result in a large number of fry, so be prepared to accommodate and care for the offspring.
Other Considerations:
- When introducing African Butterfly Cichlids to a new aquarium, it is important to acclimate them slowly to prevent stress and ensure a smooth transition. This can be done by floating the bag in the aquarium to allow the temperature to equalize and gradually adding small amounts of aquarium water to the bag over a period of time.
- Regular water changes and maintenance are essential to keep the tank conditions optimal for the well-being of the fish. Monitor water parameters and adjust as necessary to maintain stable conditions. African Butterfly Cichlids prefer clean and well-maintained water. Regular water changes, filtration, and monitoring of water parameters are necessary to maintain optimal conditions. Ensuring the tank is properly cycled before introducing the fish is also crucial.
- It is recommended to provide a balanced diet and avoid overfeeding to prevent health issues and maintain good water quality.
- African Butterfly Cichlids are generally peaceful but can become territorial during breeding, so providing adequate hiding spots and territories is important to minimize aggression.
- Observing the fish's behaviour and health regularly will help detect any signs of illness or stress. If any issues arise, it is best to consult with an experienced aquarist or a veterinarian specializing in fish health.
- Disease prevention: Like all fish, African Butterfly Cichlids are susceptible to certain diseases. Quarantining new additions before introducing them to the main tank can help prevent the spread of potential diseases. Maintaining good hygiene practices, such as cleaning and disinfecting equipment, can also reduce the risk of infections.
In conclusion, the African Butterfly Cichlid (Anomalochromis Thomasi) is a peaceful and colourful species that can thrive in a well-maintained aquarium. With proper care, a suitable tank setup, and compatible tankmates, these cichlids can provide a captivating and rewarding experience for hobbyists. Their relatively easy breeding behaviour adds an additional level of interest for those interested in observing their natural behaviours. However, it's important to note that while they are peaceful for the most part, they can become territorial during breeding, so providing adequate space and hiding spots is crucial to minimize aggression.