Apistogramma Care Guide: Keeping Dwarf Cichlids Successfully

Apistogramma, often just called “apistos,” are dwarf cichlids from South America that pack impressive color and personality into a fish that rarely exceeds three inches.

Tank Setup

Apistos appreciate soft, slightly acidic water, dense planting, and plenty of small caves or coconut shell hides for territory and potential breeding sites.

Social Structure

Most apistogramma species are best kept as a single male with several females, since males can be aggressive toward each other and even toward females outside of breeding readiness.

Breeding

Apistos are cave spawners, with females often taking on a bright yellow breeding color and guarding fry closely once eggs hatch.

Diet

Small live or frozen foods like daphnia and baby brine shrimp bring out their best color and condition, supplemented with quality micro pellets.

Browse our apistogramma selection, including the Apistogramma Wild (Lot of 4).