This cichlid, which only occurs in a narrowly defined area on the middle Rio Negro and was only scientifically described as Nannacara adoketa in 1993, was for a long time one of the absolute dream fish of cichlid enthusiasts. The initially very few imported fish were mostly exported to Japan and insane prices were demanded – and paid!
The species differs in many respects from the other Nannacara species and has a distribution area that is far removed from that of the other species. This led to the genus Ivanacara being established for the species (and the also very different N. bimaculata, which is very similar to N. adoketa, but is endemic – i.e. occurs exclusively there – in the Potaro and Essequibo rivers in Guyana).
Nowadays, the initial situation has eased considerably. We can regularly offer Ivanacara adoketa both as offspring and occasionally as a wild catch. This species, which is demanding in terms of water quality during breeding and rearing, will probably never be a “cheap fish”, but the prices have fallen to such an extent that anyone seriously interested can probably afford them.
The males of these beautiful cichlids grow to around 8-9 cm long, the females remain around 3 cm smaller. The fish require soft and acidic water for their well-being; these values are essential for breeding. The temperature should be between 23 and 26°C, the animals prefer it a little cooler than too warm! Breeding is also successful at temperatures around 24°C. They are open brooders with a parent family.
For our customers: the animals have code 683474 (wild) and 683481 (captive bred) on our stocklist. Please note that we only supply the wholesale trade.
Text & Photos: Frank Schäfer
