Agassiz's Dwarf Cichlid "Blue" (Apistogramma agassizii) Care Guide
A blue ornamental form of Apistogramma agassizii, an Amazonian dwarf cichlid that prefers soft, warm water with leaf litter and shade.
Overview
Apistogramma agassizii is a small, sexually dimorphic dwarf cichlid widely distributed across the Amazon basin. Males are larger and more colourful, with extended fins, while females are smaller and plainer. The "Blue" form is one of several ornamental, selectively bred colour strains in which body coloration is emphasised; wild coloration varies by locality.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Apistogramma
- Scientific name: Apistogramma agassizii "Tefe Blue"
- Described by: Steindachner, 1875
Habitat
The species ranges widely through the Amazon and Solimões basins, from the Río Ucayali in Peru eastward across Brazil to around the Capim River. It favours slower-moving tributaries, backwaters and creeks where fallen leaf litter accumulates, in black, white or clear water depending on the locality.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 L
- Temperature: 25-29 °C (77-84 °F)
- pH: 4.5-6.5
- GH: 1-4 °dGH
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
A soft, sandy substrate with wood, roots and dried leaf litter provides the caves and shade this fish needs. Dim lighting suits it well.
Diet
It is primarily carnivorous, feeding on benthic invertebrates in nature. In the aquarium it accepts live and frozen foods such as Artemia, Daphnia and bloodworm, plus prepared sinking foods.
Compatibility
A bottom-oriented, semi-aggressive species. Captive-raised stock can be kept in community tanks with small dither fishes such as tetras; wild fish are best kept alone or with small dithers. Avoid mixing with other Apistogramma, angelfish or aggressive cichlids. Suitable companions include cardinal tetra, rummy-nose tetra, Sterbai corydoras and hatchetfish.
Breeding
It is a cave/substrate spawner: eggs are laid in a cavity and the female tends the eggs and fry. Females can become aggressive while guarding broods, and the male may need to be removed in smaller tanks. Spawning is partial, with not all eggs released at once.