This cichlid was scientifically named and illustrated as early as 1912 under the name Nannacara bimaculata. However, it remained a phantom in the hobby. Its distribution area in Guyana (Potaro River) is considered one of the most difficult areas to travel to in South America. It was not until 1997 that Frans Vermeulen, together with Wim Suikers, was able to collect a few specimens and bring them back to the Netherlands. It became apparent that the species was very similar in behavior and appearance to I. adoketa, which at that time was still classified in the genus Nannacara. Consequently, the species was then incorporated into the genus Ivanacara, which was described in 2006.
To this day, this fish has remained a top rarity, as breeding it is just as challenging as breeding I. adoketa (see https://www.aquariumglaser.de/en/fisharchive/ivanacara-adoketa-nannacara-a-2/). Everything that has been said about I. adoketa also applies to I. bimaculata, which is why we refer to the corresponding entry at this point.
We are delighted to now be able to offer these beautiful cichlids as 3-4 cm long offspring. The young fish we currently have in stock already give an idea of how beautiful these fish will become. Even at this size, males and females are quite easy to distinguish by their color. Incidentally, according to the literature, males of I. bimaculata can grow to a maximum length of 13 cm and therefore no longer quite meet the definition of “dwarf cichlid” – by definition, this title is reserved for species with a maximum total length of 10 cm. Females, however, remain smaller. According to our breeders, I. bimaculata remains much smaller than stated in the literature – at least this strain. Males are said to be fully grown at a total length of about 6 cm; very old animals may still grow 1-2 cm.
For our customers: the animals have code 684062 on our stock list. Please note that we only supply wholesale customers.
Text & photos: Frank Schäfer
