Apistogramma is the largest genus of dwarf cichlids, with 93 recognized species distributed in tropical South America east of the Andes. However, over 400 undescribed species and various Apistogramma types have been reported in the hobby, according to a 2021 article entitled “A Description of Apistogramma Species-Groups” by Mike Wise. Knowing the different kinds of … Read more
Apistogramma macmasteri is a colorful and hardy dwarf cichlid that is undemanding in terms of water hardness. This makes it a popular choice among many beginner aquarists.
There are many color varieties of this apisto sold in the pet fish market, developed by selective breeding based on their two naturally occurring colors: red and yellow. The color-enhanced red varieties are often mistaken for tank-raised A. viejita, given their vivid red bodies.
Apistogramma cacatuoides, commonly known as the cockatoo dwarf cichlid, is arguably the most popular of the Apistogramma species in the hobby. The common name is derived from its large, crested dorsal fin.
The cockatoo cichlid is so popular because of its vibrant colors. It comes in many stunning color variations, such as Double Red, Super Red, Triple Red, and Orange Flash. No matter what color morph it is, gender differences are apparent when the fish reach adulthood.
Apistogramma borellii, also known as the yellow dwarf cichlid or umbrella cichlid, stands out as not only one of the most colorful Apistogramma species but also one of the hardiest and easiest to care for in a home aquarium. Yellow dwarf cichlids display two striking colors: opal and blue. Males and females show few apparent … Read more
Apistogramma agassizii, nicknamed affectionately Agassiz’s dwarf cichlid, is a colorful dwarf cichlid found in South America but is commonly kept in freshwater aquariums. This Apistogramma species is prized by cichlid hobbyists for its varying color morphs, including red, blue, gold, and white. These sparkly and beautifully colored mutations of A. agassizii in the pet trade … Read more
The Kelberi Peacock Bass (Cichla kelberi) is a diurnal freshwater cichlid species belonging to the genus Cichla. This predatory South American fish has gained popularity in recent years within the aquarium hobby due to its yellow-golden coloration and manageable adult size compared to other peacock bass species. The well-known types of Kelberi Peacock Bass include … Read more
Apistogramma viejita is a colorful, medium-sized, aggressive dwarf cichlid that is better for experienced owners than beginners. These beautiful fish come in two main colors: gold and red. Many experts believe that the specimens labeled as A. viejita in the aquarium trade are actually either Apistogramma macmasteri or a hybrid of A. macmasteri and A. … Read more
Apistogramma hongsloi is a colorful, aggressive dwarf cichlid fish native to the upper and central Orinoco River basin in Colombia and Venezuela. A. hongsloi are available in several color varieties, such as ‘Red,’ ‘Super Red,’ and ‘Red Gold.’ No matter their color, males and females can be easy to tell apart once they reach sexual … Read more
Apistogramma panduro, also known as Apistogramma pandurini, the azure cichlid, or blue panda cichlid, is an endemic species found exclusively in the lower Ucayali River in Peru. A. panduro is often mistaken for A. nijsseni due to their similar natural habitat, but they have easily identifiable differences, despite belonging to the same taxonomic species group. … Read more
Apistogramma trifasciata, affectionately referred to as “three-striped dwarf cichlid,” is one of the most common types of Apistogramma dwarf cichlid due in large part to its widest range of distribution. Although their native habitats are characterized by soft, acidic water, these medium-sized apistos are quite hardy and can survive in a wide range of water … Read more