Trifasciata Dwarf Cichlid

Apistogramma trifasciata

Animalia›Chordata›Actinopterygii

Variety of Three-stripe Dwarf Cichlid · trifasciata

📍 South America

A boldly patterned dwarf cichlid from the Paraguay and Paraná basins named for the three horizontal stripes (trifasciata) on its flank, with males displaying blue and yellow body coloration and striking blue-edged fins. It does best as a pair in a well-planted 20-gallon tank with soft, slightly acidic water and plentiful hiding spots for the female.

Size2.5"

Min Tank20g

semi-aggressive

Zonebottom

Care Guide

Diet

Feed high-quality micro pellets and small flake foods as staples, supplemented 2-3 times weekly with frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Occasional vegetable matter such as blanched spinach supports digestive health. Feed small portions once daily, only what can be consumed in 2-3 minutes.

Behavior

Trifasciata dwarf cichlids are territorial and semi-aggressive, especially males during breeding. They spend most time on the substrate and in caves, displaying elaborate fin displays and color changes when establishing dominance or courting. Pairs bond strongly and will defend their territory vigorously against intruders.

Breeding

Breeding in captivity is moderately difficult but achievable with proper conditioning and setup. Pairs require caves or PVC tubes for spawning, and females will aggressively guard eggs and fry while males defend the territory. Expect 50-200 fry per spawn; remove fry to a separate rearing tank after 3-4 weeks to prevent predation by parents.

Tank Mates

Otocinclus

Peaceful bottom-dweller that won't compete with cichlids; shares similar water parameters

good

Emerald Dwarf Rasbora

Small, peaceful schooling fish that occupy mid-water column and avoid territorial conflicts

good

Panda Corydoras

Peaceful catfish that forage on substrate without threatening cichlid territory

good

Red Cherry Shrimp

May be predated upon, especially fry; provide dense plants for refuge

caution

Anubias Nana

Hardy plant that provides essential hiding spots and won't be uprooted by cichlid digging

excellent

Java Fern

Durable plant offering shelter for females and fry; tolerates the acidic, soft water required

excellent

Common Diseases

Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)

Symptoms

White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, lethargy, rubbing against objects

Treatment

Raise temperature to 28-30°C, perform 25% water changes daily, use ich medication or salt treatment; maintain excellent water quality

Fin Rot

Symptoms

Frayed or deteriorating fin edges, discoloration, fin loss

Treatment

Improve water quality with frequent changes, reduce stress, use antibacterial medication if severe; ensure soft, slightly acidic water conditions

Hole-in-the-Head Disease

Symptoms

Pits or holes developing on head and lateral line, loss of appetite, lethargy

Treatment

Perform frequent water changes, improve diet with quality foods and vitamin supplementation, use metronidazole if bacterial; maintain pristine water parameters