Apistogramma baenschi

Males have tall anterior dorsal-fin rays and a red tail band bordered in black.

Males have tall anterior dorsal-fin rays and a red tail band bordered in black. Females are yellowish with more prominent broad vertical bars on the rear half of the body.

Adult length

Up to 5.5 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)

Water temperature

20–26 °C

pH

4–6.5

Hardness

1–5 dGH

Natural habitat

Lives in shallow forest tributaries among fallen leaves and submerged wood, usually in soft, acidic, tea-coloured water.

Needs mature, soft, acidic water with low organic waste. Caves and visual barriers are important; breeding requires even softer water.