Araguaia Dwarf Cichlid

Laetacara araguaiae

Family : Cichlidae

FishFreshwaterdwarf cichlid

A peaceful dwarf cichlid, ideal for freshwater community tanks. It stands out for its bright colors and moderate territorial behavior.

Araguaia Dwarf Cichlid — photo 1 sur 1
Frank M. Greco · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 3.01 / 1
Popularity
Biotope specialist
requires biotope recreation
Availability
Specialty only
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern
Biotope
South America
Hors bassin amazonien : Paraná, Orénoque, Andes.

Description

Laetacara araguaiae reaches about 7 cm. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed, with a brown-yellow base color and blue/green iridescence on the flanks. The fins are often edged in red or orange. Males are larger and more colorful than females. It is a territorial but generally peaceful fish towards other similarly sized species. It sometimes digs in the substrate to mark its territory. During breeding, it becomes more aggressive and defends its eggs.

Habitat

Region :

Clear to slightly acidic rivers and streams with sandy substrate and submerged roots.

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2428 °C
pH67.5
GH210 °dGH
KH15 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 20 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 0.5 mg/L

Care

Difficulty
2/5
Diet
Omnivore
Min. tank
60 L
Min. group
2
Adult size
7 cm
Lifespan
4 years
Temperament
Semi-agressif
Propagation
Ovipare (ponte sur substrat)

Care notes

Keep temperature at 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, and GH 2-10. A minimum 60-liter tank is recommended for a pair. Provide sandy substrate, driftwood, and floating plants to create shaded areas. Feed a varied diet: quality pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Avoid overly active or aggressive tankmates; prefer tetras, corydoras, or other peaceful dwarf cichlids. Perform regular water changes (20% weekly). Breeding is possible in the aquarium with stable parameters and soft water.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References