CICHLID BANDIT 12cm

Bandit Cichlid (Guianacara dacrya / Guianacara spp.), also known as the Bandit Acara, is a medium-sized South American. It gets its name from the distinctive black “bandit mask” band running through its eyes. The body is typically tan, silver, or light-colored with a prominent mid-lateral black spot or wedge-shaped bar below the dorsal fin area; fins can show yellow or bluish hues.

These are active, sand-sifting cichlids with eartheater-like foraging behaviour. They are generally more peaceful than many larger cichlids. Captive-bred specimens are hardy and adaptable. These fish dig, rearrange decor, and need territory. They spend much of their day sifting sand through their gills for food particles. Bandit Cichlids are cave spawners (not mouthbrooders) and excellent parents.

TANK SET UP: A group of 6+ or a community: ≈284 litres or larger — bigger is strongly preferred for natural behaviour, reduced aggression, and long-term success. Prioritise length and floor space over height. Fine, soft sand is mandatory. Provide plenty of caves (terracotta pots work excellently and encourage breeding), driftwood branches, rockwork, and visual barriers to break the line of sight and reduce territorial disputes.

TIPS: Gravel or coarse substrates can damage their mouths/gills, cause injury, stress, or choking. They will nibble on live plants.

TANK MATE:

• Other peaceful to semi-aggressive South American cichlids (e.g., Geophagus species like Red Head Tapajos, Severums, Blue Acaras).

• Larger peaceful schooling dither fish (Silver Dollars, robust tetras) to help them feel secure.

AVOID:

• Highly aggressive cichlids (Oscars, Jack Dempseys, Green Terrors, etc.).

FILTRATION: Moderate filtration with some current to mimic their natural creeks and backwaters, plus calmer zones.

MAINTENANCE: Ammonia/Nitrite 0 ppm, Nitrate < 20 ppm. Perform regular water changes (20–30% weekly or more)

TIPS: Soft/acidic preferred; captive-bred tolerate a slightly broader range

LIGHTING: Standard aquarium lighting; they appreciate some shaded areas from decor.

FEEDING: High-quality fine-grained sinking cichlid pellets—frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, mysis shrimp, or similar. Occasional blanched vegetables or spirulina-based foods can be offered, though protein-rich foods are preferred. Feed small amounts 1–2 times daily.