Apistogramma Agassizii Wild Caught

Apistogramma agassizii is a popular and colorful species of dwarf cichlid originating from South America. 

1. Temperature: They prefer a tropical environment with a temperature range of 75-82°F (24-28°C). Maintaining a stable temperature is crucial for their well-being.

2. Minimum Size Tank: A tank size of at least 20 gallons is recommended for a pair or a small group. Providing adequate hiding spots and territories is important for their territorial behavior.

Feeding Habits: Apistogramma agassizii are omnivores. Their diet should include high-quality flake or pellet food, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. A varied diet enhances their health and coloration. 

Habitat Preference: They are found in slow-moving waters, streams, and tributaries of the Amazon River basin. Providing a well-planted aquarium with driftwood, rocks, and caves mimics their natural habitat. Plants also offer hiding places and help create territories.

Water pH Level: Ideally, keep the water slightly acidic to neutral with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. Soft to moderately hard water is suitable. Regular water changes help maintain water quality.

Behavior: Apistogramma agassizii are known for their interesting behavior and can be somewhat territorial. Males can display vibrant colors and engage in elaborate courtship rituals. Care should be taken when keeping multiple males in the same tank, as aggression can occur.

They are not schooling fish but can be kept in small groups, especially if the tank is spacious with enough hiding spots. However, males may become territorial, so it's essential to monitor their interactions.

While they are not strictly bottom-dwellers, Apistogramma agassizii can spend time near the substrate, especially during feeding and exploring. They utilize the mid to lower levels of the aquarium.

Color: The males are more colorful than females, displaying vibrant hues of blue, red, and yellow. Females are generally less colorful but have a unique charm. The coloration can change based on mood, health, and breeding status.

Other Details: Breeding Apistogramma agassizii can be rewarding. Provide flat surfaces or small caves for them to lay eggs. The parents are likely to guard their fry. Regular water testing and maintenance are crucial to keep the water parameters stable. Monitor tank mates to ensure they are not overly aggressive, as apistogrammas can be somewhat sensitive to aggression.

Remember that individual fish can have unique preferences and behaviors, so observations in your specific tank are valuable for understanding and catering to the needs of your Apistogramma agassizii.