Inca Dwarf Cichlid (Apistogramma baenschi) Care Guide
A Peruvian dwarf cichlid of the nijsseni group, from cool, soft, acidic forest streams; needs very soft water for breeding.
Overview
Apistogramma baenschi is a dwarf cichlid from northern Peru, sometimes traded as the Inca apisto. It belongs to the A. nijsseni group within the wider A. trifasciata lineage. Males reach about 5 cm standard length and show intense vertical barring.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Apistogramma
- Scientific name: Apistogramma baenschi
- Species group: A. nijsseni complex
Habitat
It is native to tributaries of the Río Huallaga system in northern Peru, recorded between the towns of Tarapoto and Yurimaguas in the Shanushi and Paranapura drainages. It inhabits small forest tributaries with leaf litter and submerged wood; the water is cool, very soft, tea-coloured and of low conductivity.
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
Sources describe a habitat with soft, acidic water; very soft, acidic conditions are reported as necessary for proper egg development.
Diet
It is carnivorous, feeding on benthic invertebrates. In aquaria it takes live foods such as Artemia, Daphnia and bloodworm, and will also accept dried pellets.
Compatibility
A bottom-oriented, semi-aggressive species. Both sexes spar, and females can be particularly aggressive, sometimes locking lips. Wild fish are best kept alone or with small dither fishes and not mixed with other Apistogramma; captive-raised fish can suit community tanks. Avoid angelfish and aggressive cichlids.
Breeding
A cave/substrate spawner that lays eggs in crevices. Eggs hatch in roughly 36-72 hours and fry become free-swimming after about five to six days. Very soft, acidic water is required for successful egg development.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2014).