Nanochromis transvestitus

The Transvestite Dwarf Cichlid is known only from Lake Mai-Ndombe in the middle Congo River basin. Lake Mai-Ndombe is a soft and acidic blackwater rainforest lake which covers approximately 890 sq miles (2300 sq km) but is known to double or even triple in size during the rainy season. A pair of these beautiful fish would be suitable for most mature, softwater community aquariums; however, the tank must be 3ft or longer because of this dwarf cichlids"™ territorial nature when spawning. There should be a soft sand substrate (these little cichlids like to dig when searching for food), and an abundance of shady areas should be provided with dense planting, driftwood, and caves. Java moss covered coconut shells or clean new flowerpots are particular favourite hideaways, and a pair is likely to choose such a location as a spawning site. Filtration should be efficient, with good oxygenation and areas of moderate water movement along with quieter resting spots out of the current. Frequent partial water changes should be carried out on a regular basis to keep nitrate at a minimum. Despite their diminutive size, male N. transvestitus can be especially aggressive towards conspecifics (and towards similar looking fish) so it is best to maintain this species as one male-female pair per aquarium. Tankmates should be peaceful and enjoy the same softwater conditions. Good companions could include Corydoras catfish, dwarf gouramis, small Loricariids (suckermouth catfish), rasboras, and tetras. If kept in cramped quarters, breeding pairs will become quite aggressive towards their tankmates, so adequate space must be provided. The specific epithet 'transvestitus' is in reference to the reverse sexual dichromatism seen in this species.