Our Guide To Keeping Bandit Cichlid Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Guianacara dacrya
   • Common name: Bandit Cichlid
   • Family: Cichlidae
   • Origin: South America, specifically the Guiana Shield region
   • Adult length: Up to 15 cm
   • Lifespan: 5 to 8 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Bandit Cichlids prefer a tank with plenty of hiding places like caves, rocks, and driftwood.
   • Provide a sandy substrate to mimic their natural habitat.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Maintain a slightly acidic to neutral pH level between 6.5 to 7.5.
   • Keep the water temperature in the range of 24 to 28°C (75 to 82°F).

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • Ensure efficient filtration to maintain water quality, as Bandit Cichlids can be sensitive to poor water conditions.
   • Provide moderate water flow in the tank.

5. Diet:

   • Offer a varied diet including high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small crustaceans.
   • Supplement their diet with vegetable matter like blanched spinach or zucchini.

6. Tank mates:

   • Bandit Cichlids can be territorial, especially during breeding, so choose tank mates carefully.
   • They can coexist with other peaceful cichlids and similarly sized fish from South America like tetras, catfish, and peaceful barbs.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Bandit Cichlids are generally peaceful but can become aggressive when breeding or defending territories.
   • Provide ample hiding spaces to reduce aggression and territorial disputes.