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Apistogramma Baenschi
Apistogramma baenschi
📍 South America
Apistogramma baenschi, commonly known as the Inca Dwarf Cichlid, is a small and colorful South American cichlid prized for its vibrant red and yellow coloration. These peaceful fish are ideal for planted community tanks and nano aquariums, displaying interesting territorial and breeding behaviors. They are moderately easy to care for but require specific water conditions and adequate hiding spaces to thrive.
Care Guide
Diet
Feed small live foods such as micro worms, daphnia, and brine shrimp 2-3 times daily, supplemented with high-quality micro pellets and frozen foods. Apistogramma baenschi are carnivorous and require protein-rich foods to maintain coloration and health. Occasional vegetable matter can be offered but is not essential.
Behavior
Apistogramma baenschi are bottom-dwelling cichlids that spend much of their time exploring the substrate and hiding among plants and decorations. Males are territorial and may display aggression toward other males, particularly during breeding season, but are generally peaceful toward other community fish. They are curious and active, often interacting with their environment and displaying elaborate fin displays.
Breeding
Breeding is moderately difficult and requires soft, acidic water (pH 5.5-6.5) and temperatures around 26-28°C. Pairs will establish a territory and lay eggs in caves or under plants; the female guards the brood while the male defends the territory. Fry can be fed infusoria and micro foods once free-swimming.
Tank Mates
Small, peaceful tetras that occupy upper water column and do not compete with dwarf cichlids
Algae eaters that stay on substrate and do not threaten or compete with Apistogramma
Bottom-dwelling catfish that coexist peacefully with dwarf cichlids in planted tanks
May be preyed upon by larger males; best in heavily planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots
Small, peaceful schooling fish that occupy mid-water and do not interfere with territorial cichlids
Similar size and temperament; may compete for territory but can work in larger tanks with adequate space
Common Diseases
Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)
White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, lethargy, rubbing against objects
Increase temperature to 28-30°C, perform water changes, use aquarium salt or commercial ich treatment; ensure good water quality
Fin Rot
Frayed or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, lethargy
Improve water quality with frequent water changes, remove decaying matter, use antibacterial medication if severe
Bloat (Malawi Bloat)
Swollen abdomen, loss of appetite, difficulty swimming, pale coloration
Feed quality foods, avoid overfeeding, perform water changes; use medicated food or antibiotics in severe cases
Hole-in-the-Head Disease
Small holes or pits on head and lateral line, loss of appetite, lethargy
Improve water quality, increase water change frequency, use medicated food containing metronidazole; ensure adequate nutrition
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Quick Facts
- diet
- Omnivore - small live foods, frozen foods, and quality micro pellets
- lifespan
- 3-5 years
- max size
- 7.5 cm (3 in)
- tank size
- 20 gallons minimum
- temperament
- semi-aggressive
Water it likes
- ph
- 5.5-7.0
- ammonia
- 0 ppm
- nitrate
- <20 ppm
- hardness
- 2-8 dGH
- temperature
- 75–82°F (24–28°C)