Apistogramma agassizii Red Dwarf Cichlid

13 November 2026

108

Apistogramma agassizii is a small South American freshwater cichlid valued for its elongated fins, iridescent markings and territorial breeding behavior. The supplied trade label identifies these fish as a red color form and a pair, although sex and exact line cannot be confirmed solely from the listing or images. They suit mature, structured aquariums with soft to moderately hard, clean water, gentle flow and plenty of caves or plant cover.

Apistogramma agassizii Red Dwarf Cichlid

Taxonomy and identification

Apistogramma agassizii belongs to the family Cichlidae and genus Apistogramma. Males are generally larger and more strongly finned, while females are smaller and often develop stronger yellow breeding coloration. The source label identifies a red form of A. agassizii, but commercial strain names are not standardized. The images and listing do not independently confirm the sex of both fish or the precise breeding line.

Distribution and habitat

The species is associated with slow-moving, shallow waters of the western and central Amazon basin, including areas of Peru and Brazil. Its natural environments commonly include leaf litter, submerged wood, plant debris and sheltered margins. Water chemistry varies across localities, but many populations experience warm, soft, acidic to near-neutral water with low mineral content.

Aquarium size and setup

A pair can be maintained in a well-planned aquarium of about 60 litres, though 75 litres or more is preferable for a community setting. Use a fine, non-abrasive substrate, driftwood, hardy plants and several caves or coconut-shell shelters. Break up sightlines with vegetation and décor, and provide calm areas near the bottom. A mature, well-filtered aquarium with gentle circulation is more important than strong flow.

Water parameters and maintenance

Maintain 23–29 °C, with a target pH of about 5.5–7.0. Soft to moderately hard water is usually suitable, provided it is stable and free of detectable ammonia and nitrite. Perform regular partial water changes and avoid abrupt shifts in temperature, pH or hardness. Wild or delicate stock may require softer, more acidic water than robust captive-bred fish.

Behavior and compatibility

Apistogramma agassizii is usually manageable in a peaceful community but becomes territorial around a chosen cave, particularly when spawning. It is best kept with similarly sized, non-aggressive fish that occupy the middle or upper levels, such as small peaceful tetras or pencilfish. Avoid large, boisterous cichlids, fin-nippers and overcrowding. Bottom-dwelling tank mates may be chased from the breeding territory, so provide sufficient floor space and visual barriers.

Diet

Offer a varied carnivorous-leaning diet of appropriately sized frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, mosquito larvae and bloodworms. High-quality sinking micropellets and granules can be used as staples when accepted. Feed small portions once or twice daily, remove uneaten food and avoid relying exclusively on rich live or frozen foods.

Breeding

This species is a cave spawner. Provide several small caves, subdued lighting and very clean, stable water. The female typically selects and guards a sheltered site, while the male defends the surrounding territory. Eggs are attached to the roof or wall of the cave, and the female commonly tends the clutch and later her free-swimming fry. Small, frequent feeds of newly hatched brine shrimp or other suitable fry food support growth. Separate the pair or reduce community pressure if the female is persistently harassed.

Fish info

Care level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Adult size: Male 7–9 cm; female 4–6 cm
Life expectancy: 3–5 years
Fish type: South American dwarf cichlid
Temperature : 23–29 °C
pH: 5.5–7.0
Color Form: Red

Apistogramma

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