Candidi's Slender Cichlid

Taeniacara candidi is a monotypic genus endemic to the blackwater Rio Negro drainage of Brazil. Its torpedo-shaped body and striking horizontal lateral stripe are immediately distinctive. This species is demanding in its water requirements but rewards dedicated keepers with fascinating breeding behaviour and vivid coloration in males under optimal conditions.

Water: 26-30°C, pH 4.0-6.0, very soft (GH 0-3); RO water with blackwater additive essential. Tank: 60L minimum, dark substrate, leaf litter, minimal flow, dense fine-leaved plants. Feeding: omnivore — micro live/frozen foods (nauplii, Cyclops) are critical; pellets rarely accepted. Behaviour: peaceful but shy; males territorial to each other; pair or species group. Compatibility: species tank or blackwater biotope with small Rio Negro tetras only.