Nijssen's Dwarf Cichlid Care
Apistogramma nijsseni
Nijssen’s dwarf cichlid is a South American cave-spawner from northern Peru. For a pair, the specialist source gives a footprint of 60 × 30 cm and about 54 litres. In nature it inhabits slow blackwater with very little dissolved mineral content. Provide soft sand, wood, leaf litter, refuges and several caves. Captive-raised fish are recommended for community aquaria. Wild fish are better kept alone or with small Nannostomus. Avoid other Apistogramma and allow for possible female aggression during brood care. Observe both fish closely, maintain stable water conditions, and provide a way to separate them if required.
Plan your aquarium →At a glance
- Temperature
- 24–28 °C
- pH
- 5.0–6.5
- GH
- 0–4 °dGH
- Aquarium length
- At least 60 cm
- Minimum aquarium volume
- At least 54 L
- Adult size
- Up to 8.5 cm
- Group size
- At least 2 individuals
- Temperament
- Peaceful
About this species
Apistogramma nijsseni Kullander, 1979 belongs to Cichlidae and is known from tributaries of the Río Ucayali in Loreto, northern Peru. Its DATZ code is A180. Trade names include panda dwarf cichlid and Nijssen’s dwarf cichlid. Since “panda” is also used for A. panduro, check the scientific name carefully.
Natural habitat
The species inhabits slow blackwater streams, creeks, smaller rivers and tributaries. Decaying leaves and wood stain the water and release humic substances; mineral content is very low and pH can locally fall to 4–5. Dense forest canopy limits light. These are observations from natural sites, not a reason to make abrupt chemical changes at home.
Aquarium and layout
For one pair, the source gives a 60 × 30 cm footprint and about 54 litres; a group needs more space. Set up soft sand, root wood, leaf litter and several caves or crevices. Dim light, floating plants and gentle flow suit the species. Avoid very large water changes; Seriously Fish suggests around 10–15% weekly for lightly stocked tanks. Provide visual barriers and a safe way to separate fish.
Water conditions
Seriously Fish lists 24–28 °C, pH 5.0–6.5 and 0–4 °dGH. The species needs soft, acidic water and steady temperature. Some natural blackwater sites have lower pH, but those values require specialist water preparation and are not a general recommendation. Avoid sudden changes and acclimate carefully.
Behaviour and group size
The specialist source recommends captive-raised fish for community aquaria. Wild fish are better alone or with small Nannostomus. Ideally, do not mix them with other Apistogramma. Available evidence does not establish a general compatibility list or fixed group size. A female guarding eggs may become hyper-aggressive in a small aquarium, so provide multiple caves and a safe separation option.
Feeding
This species is primarily carnivorous and feeds mainly on benthic invertebrates. Regularly offer varied live or frozen foods such as Artemia, Daphnia and suitable chironomid larvae. Many specimens learn to accept dried foods; pellets are generally taken more readily than flakes. Ensure the female gets her share.
Breeding
This is a cave or crevice substrate spawner. The female cares for eggs and fry and may become highly aggressive toward the male in a small tank. Multiple caves and visual barriers reduce direct encounters. Be ready to move the male safely if aggression continues.
Sources & review
This care guide draws on several specialist sources and was last checked on .