Apistogramma Baenschi

Apistogramma baenschi

Also known as Inka Cichlid, Apisto Baenschi

Animalia›Chordata›Perciformes›Cichlidae

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.

Where it's from

Native to the Amazon river basin

Brazil

At a glance

Size: 3 in; 8 cm
Min tank: 20 gal; 76 L
Temp: 75–82°F; 24–28°C
pH: 5.5-7.0
GH: 36–143 ppm; 2–8 dGH
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Swims: Bottom
Lifespan: 3-5 yrs

Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.

Care

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

See all 6

Neon Tetra

Small, peaceful tetras that occupy upper water column and do not compete with dwarf cichlids

good

Otocinclus

Algae eaters that stay on substrate and do not threaten or compete with Apistogramma

good

Corydoras Sterbai

Bottom-dwelling catfish that coexist peacefully with dwarf cichlids in planted tanks

good

Red Cherry Shrimp

May be preyed upon by larger males; best in heavily planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots

caution

Harlequin Rasbora

Small, peaceful schooling fish that occupy mid-water and do not interfere with territorial cichlids

good

Fits a 20-gallon tank

No state or federal restrictions on record.

Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.

The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it. Native range: Tedesco et al. 2017 (CC0).