Apistogramma agassizi(Steindachner)/Agassiz's Dwarf Cichlid
Range: Middle Amazon region
Habits: Fairly peaceful except when spawning.
Water Conditions: Fairly soft, almost neutral water. Temperature 23 to 25°
Size: 7.5 cm; begins breeding at 5 cm.
Food Requirements: Live Foods, enchytrae and tubifex worms are prefered but will accept dry foods
Apistogramma agassizi is a very popular fish. One of the big advantages with dwarf cichlids is that they do not require a large aquarium for breeding, Forty liters is ample with this species. Some retreats should be providded, such as a flowerpot laid on it's side with a few rocks, or even coconut shells. The pair should be carefully fed in advance and be in the best condition. They will soon inspect one particular spot and begin by cleaning it carefully. The female then lays row after row of eggs, which the male fertlizes. Then the female suddennly takes over. She drives away the male and guards the eggs. If the male is not removed at this time, he will be torn to pieces. The eggs will hatch
within 4 days. The male should be removed when he is done spawning, to prevent bloodshed.
Email: Tropicals@earthling.net
