Apistogramma agassizii 1.5″ WILD CAUGHT

Apistogramma agassizii, also known as the Agassiz’s Dwarf Cichlid, is a colorful and peaceful species of South American cichlid. Native to the Amazon Basin in Brazil, this species is popular in the aquarium hobby for its vibrant colors, particularly the males’ red and orange hues, and its manageable size. As a dwarf cichlid, Apistogramma agassizii is ideal for smaller aquariums and community tanks, but it does require specific care to thrive.

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size:
  • A minimum of 20 gallons is ideal for a pair of Apistogramma agassizii, though larger tanks (30 gallons or more) are recommended for better stability and for keeping a group.
  • If keeping a group, be sure to include plenty of territories and hiding spots to reduce aggression between individuals.
• Tank Setup:
  • Soft, sandy substrate is essential, as Apistogramma agassizii likes to dig and sift through the substrate. Avoid sharp gravel that could damage their delicate fins.
  • Provide plenty of hiding spaces with driftwood, caves, and plants. Dense plantings along with roots and rocks will also help create territories for each fish.
  • This species prefers a densely planted environment, which mimics its natural habitat. Floating plants can also help provide some cover and reduce stress.
• Lighting:
  • Moderate lighting is ideal. Overhead lighting can highlight their vibrant colors, but avoid harsh, bright lights that could stress them out.
  • A dimly lit tank or shaded areas will mimic the dappled light conditions of their natural environment.
• Water Flow:
  • Gentle to moderate water flow is best. While Apistogramma agassizii prefers calm waters, they can adapt to mild current, especially if there are plenty of hiding places to retreat to.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C)
• pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2–10 dGH)
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm; nitrates should be kept below 20 ppm
• Water Changes: Weekly water changes (20–30%) are necessary to maintain water quality, as these fish are sensitive to poor water conditions.

Diet

Apistogramma agassizii is an omnivorous species that will accept a variety of foods in the aquarium:

• Staple Foods:
  • High-quality, sinking pellets or flakes formulated for cichlids or small fish.
• Live/Frozen Foods:
  • They thrive on occasional treats such as live or frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, or mosquito larvae.
• Vegetables:
  • Offer blanched vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or peas.
• Feeding Schedule:
  • Feed Apistogramma agassizii 2–3 times per day in small portions that can be consumed in a few minutes. Make sure to vary their diet for optimal health and coloration.

Note: While they will eat most foods, it’s important not to overfeed, as this can lead to water quality issues and stress.

Behavior and Compatibility

• Temperament:
  • Apistogramma agassizii is a peaceful species but can be territorial, especially during breeding. The males may become aggressive toward each other or other males of the same species.
  • They are generally shy and prefer to hide in caves or plants during the day, but they become more active during feeding time or in the evening.
• Tankmates:
  • Best kept with other peaceful fish such as small tetras, rasboras, or peaceful dwarf cichlids.
  • Avoid large or aggressive fish, as Apistogramma agassizii can be stressed by more dominant tankmates.
  • Ensure that there are plenty of hiding spots to allow each fish to establish a territory.
• Social Behavior:
  • Males are usually territorial, especially when a female is present, so it’s recommended to keep one male with multiple females to reduce aggression.
  • In breeding setups, it’s essential to have enough space for the male and female to maintain their territory.

Breeding

Breeding Apistogramma agassizii in captivity is relatively straightforward with the right setup:

1. Breeding Setup:
   • A 20-gallon or larger tank with soft, slightly acidic water is ideal for breeding. Provide plenty of hiding spots, caves, and plants.
   • Create a peaceful environment to encourage breeding behavior and reduce stress.
2. Spawning Behavior:
   • The female will lay eggs on flat surfaces, often in caves or on the underside of leaves. The male will fertilize the eggs, and the female will guard them.
3. Egg Care:
   • The eggs will hatch in 2–3 days, and the fry will remain in the nest for several days before becoming free-swimming.
4. Fry Care:
   • The parents will protect the fry, and once they are free-swimming, you can feed them baby brine shrimp, liquid fry food, or finely crushed flakes.
   • It’s best to remove the parents after the fry are free-swimming to prevent them from eating the young.

Common Challenges

1. Water Quality:
   • These cichlids are sensitive to poor water quality. Regular water changes, proper filtration, and careful monitoring of water parameters are essential.
2. Territorial Aggression:
   • Males can become territorial and aggressive, particularly during breeding. Ensure there are sufficient hiding spots and space in the tank to prevent aggression.
3. Stress from Tankmates:
   • Avoid aggressive or overly active tankmates, as these can stress out Apistogramma agassizii. Peaceful species with similar environmental needs work best.
4. Overfeeding:
   • Overfeeding can lead to poor water quality, which can stress the fish. Feed only what the fish can consume in a few minutes and remove any leftover food.

Interesting Facts

• Apistogramma agassizii is known for its bright colors, particularly in males. Males often exhibit red, orange, and blue hues during the breeding season, while females have more subdued coloration but are still attractive.
• These fish are cavity breeders, meaning they will lay eggs in small caves or crevices.
• Apistogramma agassizii is a substrate spawner and may also lay eggs on leaves or other surfaces within their territory.
• In their natural environment, they inhabit slow-moving waters with plenty of hiding spots, such as fallen leaves, roots, and submerged branches.

Care Summary

Aspect	Details
Tank Size	Minimum 20 gallons; 30+ gallons for groups
Water Parameters	pH 6.0–7.5, 74–82°F, soft water
Diet	Omnivorous: sinking pellets, live/frozen foods, vegetables
Temperament	Peaceful but territorial, especially during breeding
Lifespan	3–5 years

Apistogramma agassizii is a colorful and peaceful dwarf cichlid that thrives in well-planted aquariums with stable water conditions. By providing them with the appropriate environment, proper care, and a balanced diet, you can enjoy their vibrant colors and fascinating behavior for many years.