More info
Common Name: Curviceps Dwarf Cichlid, Smiling Acara, Golden Dwarf Cichlid
Scientific Name: Laetacara curviceps (Ahl, 1924)
Order: Cichliformes — Family: Cichlidae
Distribution: South America — Amazon and Tocantins River basins (Brazil and Peru). Inhabits slow-moving waters, river margins, and forest streams with dense vegetation and sandy bottoms.
Lifespan: 5 to 8 years
Maximum Size (Adult): 7 to 8 cm
pH: 6.0 – 7.5 — Hardness: 2 – 12 dGH
Temperature: 24°C – 28°C
Minimum Aquarium Volume: 80 liters (pair)
Reef Safe (Compatibility): Not applicable — freshwater species.
Behavior & Compatibility:
A peaceful and sociable species, perfect for community aquariums with small, calm fish. Forms stable pairs and shows strong parental care. Suitable tankmates include tetras, Corydoras, and small Loricariids. Avoid aggressive or highly active fish.
Diet:
Omnivorous with a carnivorous tendency. Feeds on small invertebrates, larvae, and plant matter. In aquariums, accepts quality dry foods, fine pellets, flakes, and live or frozen food such as brine shrimp, daphnia, or mosquito larvae. A varied diet enhances coloration.
Reproduction:
Oviparous with biparental care. The pair selects a flat surface (rock, leaf, or wood) to lay eggs, which are guarded and fanned by both parents. Eggs hatch after 2–3 days, and fry become free-swimming within about 5 days. Parental care continues until juveniles gain independence.
Sexual Dimorphism:
Males are slightly larger with longer dorsal and anal fins and more vivid coloration. Females show brighter colors during breeding and a noticeable dark spot on the body.
Natural Habitat & Biotope:
Found in calm, shaded waters with submerged vegetation, roots, and branches. The substrate is fine sand mixed with leaf litter, producing characteristic amber “blackwater” conditions — ideal to recreate in captivity.
Etymology:
The genus name Laetacara combines Latin “laetus” (cheerful) and “cara” (face), referring to its “smiling” appearance. The species name curviceps means “curved head.”
Foto ilustrativa. | Illustrative photo.
