Baensch's dwarf cichlid

Apistogramma baenschi

Family : Cichlidae

FishFreshwaterdwarf cichlid

A peaceful and colorful dwarf cichlid, ideal for planted aquariums. Males display a bright yellow body with black stripes.

Popularity
Biotope specialist
requires biotope recreation
Availability
Specialty only
Shop availability
IUCN Status
NE
Not Evaluated
Biotope
South America
Hors bassin amazonien : Paraná, Orénoque, Andes.

Description

Apistogramma baenschi reaches up to 6 cm. The male is larger and more colorful than the female, with red spots on the dorsal and caudal fins. The female is duller, pale yellow with a black lateral stripe. It is a territorial but non-aggressive species that lives in pairs or harems. During breeding, the female turns bright yellow and guards the eggs in a cave. It originates from soft, acidic waters in Peru.

Habitat

Region :

Streams and blackwater creeks of the Amazon rainforest

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2428 °C
pH56.5
GH15 °dGH
KH02 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 20 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 0.5 mg/L

Care

Difficulty
3/5
Diet
Carnivore
Min. tank
60 L
Min. group
2
Adult size
6 cm
Lifespan
4 years
Temperament
Peaceful
Propagation

Care notes

Keep in an aquarium of at least 60 L, with gentle filtration and low current. Water should be acidic (pH 5.0-6.5) and very soft (GH 1-5). Ideal temperature 25-28°C. Feed with live or frozen foods (brine shrimp, daphnia). Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Provide hiding places (roots, leaves, pots). Breeding is possible in a species tank. Avoid overly active tankmates.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References