Inca Dwarf Cichlid Care
Apistogramma baenschi
The Inca dwarf cichlid is considered one of the more suitable Apistogramma for newcomers to dwarf cichlids, but it still needs soft acidic water and a biologically mature aquarium. For a pair, the specialist source specifies a footprint of at least 80 × 30 cm and about 72 litres. Provide sand, wood, leaf litter, shade and caves. Captive-raised fish are recommended for community aquaria. The species can form a hierarchy, and females may also fight fiercely. Add it only to a fully established tank and keep a safe separation option ready.
Plan your aquarium →At a glance
- Temperature
- 20–26 °C
- pH
- 4.0–6.5
- GH
- 1–5 °dGH
- Aquarium length
- At least 80 cm
- Minimum aquarium volume
- At least 72 L
- Adult size
- Up to 5.5 cm
- Group size
- At least 2 individuals
- Temperament
- Peaceful
About this species
Apistogramma baenschi Römer, Hahn, Römer, Soares & Wöhler, 2004 belongs to Cichlidae. It occurs in tributaries of the lower Río Huallaga in northern Peru. Its DATZ code is A188. Inca dwarf cichlid is the common English name; inconsistent trade labels can cause confusion, so check the scientific name.
Natural habitat
The species has been collected in shallow forest tributaries among leaf litter and submerged wood. The water is very soft, low in conductivity and often tea-stained. At documented sites pH has measured 4.1–6.3. This describes natural habitat; do not reproduce extreme conditions without suitable knowledge and water preparation.
Aquarium and layout
The source requires a footprint of at least 80 × 30 cm or equivalent and gives about 72 litres. Use soft sand, roots, leaf litter and several caves. Dim light and floating plants provide cover; a sponge filter with gentle flow may suffice. The aquarium must be biologically mature because the species is sensitive to fluctuating organic waste. Avoid strong current and very large water changes; the source suggests around 10–15% weekly in lightly stocked tanks.
Water conditions
Seriously Fish lists 20–26 °C, pH 4.0–6.5 and 1–5 °dGH. The species comes from very soft acidic water. Captive-raised fish can be more adaptable and may temporarily tolerate moderately hard, neutral water, but stable soft conditions are important for breeding. Keep values steady, maintain very low carbonate hardness and never change water chemistry abruptly.
Behaviour and group size
Captive-raised fish are recommended for community aquaria. Wild examples are better alone or with small Nannostomus and ideally not with other Apistogramma. Pairs or groups can work in larger setups and usually form a hierarchy. Both sexes spar for dominance; females can be particularly forceful. Provide several refuges and a safe way to separate fish.
Feeding
The Inca dwarf cichlid is primarily carnivorous and feeds mainly on benthic invertebrates. Regularly offer varied live or frozen foods such as Artemia, Daphnia, Moina and suitable chironomid larvae. Many fish learn to accept dried foods too; pellets are generally taken more readily than flakes. Feed small portions and check that every fish gets enough.
Breeding
This species lays eggs in caves or crevices. Males may hold large territories and tolerate several females; the female tends the eggs and fry. Very soft, acidic water is required for proper egg development. Provide several caves and visual barriers and keep a safe separation option ready if territorial aggression rises.
Sources & review
This care guide draws on several specialist sources and was last checked on .