African Butterfly Cichlid (Anomalochromis thomasi)

Overview

Common Name: African Butterfly Cichlid
Scientific Name: Anomalochromis thomasi
Region of Origin: West Africa (Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea)
Maximum Size: 3 inches (7.5 cm)
Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
Lifespan: 4–6 years
Care Level: Beginner-friendly
Temperament: Peaceful
Preferred Tank Zone: Bottom to Middle
Schooling Behavior: No – pair-forming species

Description:
The African Butterfly Cichlid is a small, calm species perfect for planted tanks and peaceful communities. Its iridescent body, subtle markings, and bright red eyes make it a hidden gem in the hobby. Unlike most African cichlids, this species thrives in soft, slightly acidic water and gets along well with other non-aggressive tankmates.

African Butterfly Cichlid with red eyes and golden fins swimming over leaf litter, on black background
African Butterfly Cichlid – Anomalochromis thomasi, a peaceful West African dwarf cichlid

Water Parameters

  • Temperature: 75–80°F (24–27°C)
  • pH Range: 6.0–7.5
  • Water Hardness (GH): 4–10 dGH
  • Carbonate Hardness (KH): 3–6 dKH
  • Water Type: Freshwater, soft to neutral

Aquascape Recommendations

  • Soft sand or fine gravel
  • Dense plants and leaf litter for natural cover
  • Driftwood and rock shelters
  • Low to moderate water flow
  • Gentle lighting

Feeding & Diet

Diet Type: Omnivore

Core Diet

  • Micropellets or high-quality flakes
  • Algae wafers
  • Vegetable-based flakes

Supplements & Treats

  • Daphnia
  • Brine shrimp
  • Bloodworms (sparingly)

Feeding Notes:
Feed in small amounts 1–2 times daily. This species prefers foraging and benefits from a varied omnivore diet with plant content.

Behavior & Compatibility

  • Temperament: Very peaceful
  • Best Tank Mates: Tetras, rasboras, dwarf gouramis, Corydoras
  • Avoid Housing With: Aggressive or boisterous species
  • Territorial Behavior: Minimal, even during spawning
  • Behavior Type: Pair-bonded bottom dweller
  • Activity Level: Active but shy in open water

Breeding

  • Breeding Method: Substrate spawner
  • Breeding Setup: Leaf litter, smooth rocks, or small caves
  • Spawning Behavior: Pair chooses a flat surface for eggs; both parents guard the site
  • Fry Care: Fry hatch in ~2–3 days; free-swimming by day 5
  • Note: Easy to breed in soft, slightly acidic water with cover