Agassiz’s dwarf cichlid

Apistogramma agassizii

An elongated body and modest central tail point; blue-gold is one of many appearances.

Follow the lateral band and male tail outline before comparing colour forms.

Adult length: Up to 4.2 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)
Water temperature: 22–29 °C
Lifespan: 3–5 years
pH: 5–7
Hardness: 0–10 dGH

Natural habitat: Occurs in clearwater, blackwater and whitewater habitats.

A brood-guarding female may drive the male away; provide retreat and a separation option.

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Appearance and identification

The male has a lateral band reaching the tail base, a modest central tail point and extended rear dorsal/anal fins. Males range from redder to bluer. Colour and locality labels are not separate species. Females are usually smaller with shorter fins.

Social behaviour and territory

Watch both sexes during breeding. A purchased male and female are not necessarily a pair; keep different collection populations separate for breeding.

Compatibility limits

Consider cave territories, feeding competition and origin individually.

Space requirements

At least 60 × 30 cm for a pair; groups need more space and shelter.

Aquarium environment

Soft substrate, roots and shade-tolerant plants provide cover. Preserve cave entrances and bottom feeding space.

Diet and feeding

Offer suitably small live/frozen foods and accepted complete pellets; confirm subordinate fish feed.

Sources