Agassizi's Triple Red Apisto

Agassizi’s Dwarf Cichlid Triple Red (Apistogramma agassizii)

A classic and highly variable dwarf cichlid from the Amazon basin, named after the renowned naturalist and zoologist Louis Agassiz. One of the most popular and widely kept Apistogramma species in the hobby, it is prized for its manageable size, interesting behavior, and the stunning array of color forms and locality variants available — from wild-type fish with subtle patterning to selectively bred strains with intense reds, blues, and extended fins. Males are particularly striking with their larger size and more elaborate finnage.

Key Features

• Maximum Size: Male 7.5 cm / ~3.0 inches; Female 5 cm / ~2.0 inches.
• Appearance: Compact, laterally compressed body with highly variable coloration depending on locality and strain. Wild fish often show a base of browns, yellows, or subtle blues with vertical bars or spots; selectively bred forms can display vibrant reds, electric blues, and contrasting markings. Males are larger and more colorful with noticeably elongated dorsal and anal fins; females are smaller and less ornate but still attractive, especially when guarding fry.
• Fin Details: Males develop extended, flowing dorsal and anal fins that enhance their graceful presence.

Aquarium Care

• Tank Size: Minimum 60 × 30 cm base for a pair (larger for groups or community setups).
• Water Parameters: Soft, acidic to neutral tropical freshwater; 72–84°F (22–29°C), pH 3.0–7.0 (wild fish prefer very soft, acidic conditions around 4.0–6.0; captive-bred strains are more adaptable). Low hardness and excellent water quality are important. Provide a soft sandy substrate, leaf litter, driftwood, caves or ceramic pots, and plants (Cryptocoryne, Anubias, Microsorum) for cover and natural feel. Dim lighting and gentle filtration help mimic their shaded stream habitats.
• Diet: Primarily carnivorous — offer live or frozen foods such as Artemia, Daphnia, bloodworm, and small invertebrates regularly. Most accept high-quality pellets or flakes, though live/frozen foods are preferred for conditioning and breeding.
• Behavior: Generally peaceful for a dwarf cichlid when kept in appropriately sized tanks with plenty of hiding spots. Best kept as a pair or small group with small dither fish (e.g., Nannostomus or Micropoecilia). Avoid mixing with other Apistogramma species to prevent hybridization. Substrate spawner; the female cares for eggs and fry in caves or crevices and can become quite protective (sometimes requiring temporary separation of the male in smaller tanks).

IUCN Status Not Evaluated