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Photo of: African Butterfly Cichlid (Anomalochromis thomasi)
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Scientific Name(s): Anomalochromis thomasi, Hemichromis thomasi, Haplochromis thomasi, Paratilapia thomasi, Pelmatochromis thomasi
Common Name(s): African Butterfly Cichlid
Family: Cichlidae
Species Type: African Cichlids, Other
Maximum Size: 3 inches
Life Span: 8 years
Natural Habitat: River deltas of Sierra Leone and Liberia
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Tank Region: All over
Possible Tank Mates: Other non aggressive fish with similar water parameter requirements.
Description: The species name thomasi is and carries a patronymic name in honor of it's discoverer N. W. Thomas. The African Butterfly Cichlid made its scientific debut in 1915. Its author, ichthyologist G.A. Boulenger, originally placed it in the genus Paratilapia, which at that time was a heterogenous grouping of African cichlids with few features in common except for superficially similar dentition in their jaws and a reduced number of anal fin spines. It was briefly placed in the genus Hemichromis (Jewel Cichlids) before the scientific name Anomalochromis thomasi became valid in 1989. Anomlaochromis is a monotypic genus - meaning thomasi is the only member. For its size, this species is a surprisingly hearty eater that does best when offered two or three moderate meals daily. The fact that Anomalochromis thomasi does not disturb plants has made it a favourite cichlid in Europe, where Dutch-style planted aquaria are very popular.
Temperature Range 72°F - 82°F
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| 60°F |
65°F |
70°F |
75°F |
80°F |
85°F |
90°F |
| pH 5.0 |
pH 6.0 |
pH 7.0 |
pH 8.0 |
pH 9.0 |
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African Catfish
