Agassiz's Dwarf Cichlid "Red" (Apistogramma agassizii) Care Guide
A red ornamental form of Apistogramma agassizii, an Amazonian dwarf cichlid kept in soft, warm water with leaf litter and dim light.
Overview
Apistogramma agassizii is a small, sexually dimorphic dwarf cichlid with a broad Amazonian distribution. Males are larger and more colourful, with extended fins. The "Red" or "Fire Red" form is a selectively bred colour strain emphasising red body tones on males; wild coloration of the species varies by locality.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Apistogramma
- Scientific name: Apistogramma agassizii "Fire Red"
- 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 about the Capim River. It occupies slower tributaries, backwaters and creeks with accumulated leaf litter, in black, white or clear water depending on the locality.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 L
- Temperature: 24-29 °C (75-84 °F)
- pH: 5.0-6.8
- GH: 1-6 °dGH
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
A soft, sandy substrate with wood, roots and dried leaf litter creates the caves and shaded retreats this fish uses. Dim lighting suits it.
Diet
Primarily carnivorous, feeding on benthic invertebrates in nature. In aquaria it accepts live and frozen foods such as Artemia, Daphnia and bloodworm, plus sinking prepared foods.
Compatibility
A bottom-oriented, semi-aggressive species. Captive-bred fish can be kept in community tanks with small dither fishes; avoid mixing with other Apistogramma, angelfish or aggressive cichlids. Compatible companions include cardinal tetra, rummy-nose tetra, Sterbai corydoras and hatchetfish.
Breeding
A cave/substrate spawner: eggs are laid in a cavity and the female cares for the eggs and fry. Females can become aggressive while guarding the brood, and the male may need to be removed in smaller tanks. Spawning is partial.