Apistogramma agassizii – Fire Red

Scientific Name: Apistogramma agassizii
Common Name: Fire Red Agassiz’s Dwarf Cichlid

Apistogramma agassizii – Fire Red is a spectacular selectively bred variety of South American dwarf cichlid known for its intense red-orange coloration, elongated fins, contrasting markings, and impressive personality. Mature males can develop especially vibrant coloration and extended finnage, making Fire Red Agassizii an eye-catching centerpiece for smaller freshwater aquariums.

Native forms of Apistogramma agassizii occur throughout portions of the Amazon River basin in South America. In the aquarium, they thrive in environments that provide plenty of structure and cover while maintaining excellent water quality.

Although small, these are true cichlids with complex territorial and breeding behaviors. They typically spend much of their time exploring the lower portions of the aquarium and appreciate caves, driftwood, plants, leaf litter, and other structures that create secure territories.

Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-Peaceful / Territorial
Adult Size: Approximately 2–3.5 inches, with males generally larger than females
Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
Temperature: 75–82°F
pH: Approximately 5.5–7.0
Diet: Omnivore with a preference for protein-rich foods

Recommended Setup: A mature, well-filtered aquarium with sand or another fine substrate, plenty of plants, driftwood, caves, and visual barriers. Multiple hiding places are particularly important when keeping pairs or multiple dwarf cichlids.

Feed a varied diet consisting of high-quality appropriately sized prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and other small aquatic foods.

Behavior & Tankmates: Fire Red Agassizii can be maintained with carefully selected peaceful community fish, but they may become considerably more territorial during breeding. Avoid aggressive tankmates or species that constantly compete with them for territory along the bottom of the aquarium.

Breeding: Apistogramma agassizii is a cave-spawning dwarf cichlid. Females establish protected spawning territories and provide dedicated care to their eggs and developing fry. During this period, females can become highly defensive around the spawning site.

Please Note: Fire Red coloration, pattern, fin development, size, and sex naturally vary between individual fish. Mature males typically develop the strongest coloration and most elaborate finnage. The fish you receive may differ from the individual pictured.

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