Subtotal: £127.74
Original price was: £38.99.£32.90Current price is: £32.90.
Welcome these beautiful PAIR Apistogramma Agassizii «Blue» into your peaceful community aquarium. With their stunning blue coloration and graceful movements, these dwarf cichlids are perfect for aquarists seeking vibrant freshwater fish. Includes one male and one female for an enchanting display.
1000 in stock
Welcome these beautiful creatures, the PAIR Apistogramma Agassizii «Blue», commonly known as the Blue Agassiz’s Dwarf Cichlid. This captivating freshwater fish originates from the slow-moving waters of the Amazon Basin, where it thrives in warm, acidic conditions. Renowned for its vibrant blue coloration, the male typically displays more vivid colors and larger fins than the female, making them a visually striking pair in any aquatic setup.
| Optimal Living Conditions | |
|---|---|
| Water Temperature | 24-27°C (75-81°F) |
| pH Level | 6.5-7.5 |
| Water Hardness | 4-12 dKH |
| Minimum Tank Size | 80L (20 gal) |
| Salinity | Freshwater |
| Care Level | Beginner Friendly |
The Blue Agassiz’s Dwarf Cichlid is a peaceful fish that thrives in community tanks. They exhibit a range of natural behaviors, including territorial displays, especially during breeding. Males can be somewhat aggressive towards each other, so it is advisable to keep only one male per tank unless you have a significantly large space. Their social behavior is quite engaging; they often interact with their environment and other fish, displaying a curious nature that captivates aquarists.
Creating an ideal environment for your Blue Agassiz’s Dwarf Cichlid involves replicating their natural habitat as closely as possible. Begin with a tank of at least 20 gallons, providing ample space for swimming and hiding. Use a soft substrate, such as fine sand or gravel, which allows them to dig and create territories. Incorporate plenty of hiding spots using driftwood, caves, and dense plants, as these fish feel secure in well-structured environments.
✓ Good Water Quality
Maintaining optimal water quality is crucial for the health and well-being of your Blue Agassiz’s Dwarf Cichlid. Aim for a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5, with a temperature range of 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C). Regular testing of water parameters is essential, as fluctuations can stress the fish and lead to health issues.
Feeding your Blue Agassiz’s Dwarf Cichlid a balanced diet is vital for their health and vibrancy. These fish are omnivorous and thrive on a varied diet that includes high-quality flake foods, pellets, and frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. A feeding schedule of 2-3 times per day is recommended, providing only what they can consume in a few minutes to prevent overfeeding and water quality issues.
✓ Peaceful Community Fish
The Blue Agassiz’s Dwarf Cichlid is well-suited for community tanks, especially when paired with other peaceful species. Ideal tank mates include small tetras, rasboras, and other non-aggressive fish that occupy different levels of the tank.
Monitoring the health of your Blue Agassiz’s Dwarf Cichlid is essential for their long-term well-being. Common health issues include ich, fin rot, and stress-related diseases. Regular water testing and maintenance can help prevent many health problems. Quarantine new fish before introducing them to your main tank to avoid spreading diseases.
✓ Breeding Potential
Breeding Blue Agassiz’s Dwarf Cichlids can be a rewarding experience for aquarists. These fish are substrate spawners, meaning they lay their eggs on flat surfaces, such as rocks or leaves. To encourage breeding, provide a separate breeding tank with optimal water conditions.
Introducing your new Blue Agassiz’s Dwarf Cichlid to its new home requires a careful acclimation process to minimize stress. Begin by floating the sealed bag containing the fish in the aquarium for about 15-20 minutes to equalize the temperature. After this, gradually add small amounts of tank water to the bag over the next 30 minutes.
Caring for your Blue Agassiz’s Dwarf Cichlid involves understanding their lifecycle and growth expectations. These fish typically reach maturity at around 6 months of age, with a maximum length of approximately 3-4 inches. Providing a stable environment with consistent water parameters, a balanced diet, and regular maintenance will ensure they thrive throughout their lives.
✓ Biotope Setup
To create a biotope that mimics the natural habitat of the Blue Agassiz’s Dwarf Cichlid, focus on replicating the Amazon Basin’s conditions. Use a dark substrate, such as fine sand, and add driftwood and rocks to create hiding spots and territories.
As seasons change, it’s important to adjust your care routine for your Blue Agassiz’s Dwarf Cichlid. In warmer months, ensure that the water temperature remains stable and does not exceed 82°F (28°C), as higher temperatures can stress the fish.
✓ Professional Advice
To ensure the best care for your Blue Agassiz’s Dwarf Cichlid, consider these expert tips: First, always research and understand the specific needs of your fish before introducing them to your aquarium.
If you encounter issues with your Blue Agassiz’s Dwarf Cichlid, it’s essential to address them promptly. Common problems include aggression, poor water quality, and health issues.
✓ Taxonomy Insights
The Blue Agassiz’s Dwarf Cichlid belongs to the family Cichlidae, which encompasses a diverse group of freshwater fish known for their complex behaviors and vibrant colors.
For those looking to take their care of Blue Agassiz’s Dwarf Cichlids to the next level, consider implementing advanced techniques such as creating a biotope aquarium that closely resembles their natural habitat.
The Apistogramma Agassizii «Blue» thrives best in a minimum tank size of 75 litres (20 gallons). This provides ample space for swimming and establishing territories. A well-planted aquarium with hiding spots, such as caves or driftwood, will help mimic their natural habitat and reduce stress. Ensure the tank is appropriately cycled before introducing these fish, as they are sensitive to fluctuations in water quality. A larger tank is preferable for breeding pairs, as it allows for better territorial behaviour and reduces aggression.
✓ Expert Tip
Consider adding floating plants to provide shade and cover, which can help reduce stress levels in your fish.
Apistogramma Agassizii prefers slightly acidic to neutral water conditions, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The water hardness should be kept between 3-10 dGH, and the temperature should ideally be maintained between 24-28°C (75-82°F). Regular water changes of 10-20% weekly are essential to keep the water quality high and to prevent the build-up of harmful toxins. Monitoring the parameters using reliable test kits will help ensure a healthy environment for your aquatic companions.
✓ Expert Tip
Using RO (reverse osmosis) water can help achieve the desired parameters, especially in hard water areas.
Feeding Apistogramma Agassizii should be done once or twice daily, providing only as much food as they can consume within a few minutes. A varied diet is essential for their health; include high-quality pellets, frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp or daphnia, and vegetable matter like blanched spinach. Overfeeding can lead to water quality issues, so always monitor the feeding amounts to maintain a clean environment. Additionally, consider a fasting day each week to aid digestion.
✓ Expert Tip
Introduce new foods gradually to prevent digestive issues, allowing your fish to adapt to dietary changes.
Apistogramma Agassizii is generally peaceful but can be territorial, especially during breeding. Suitable tank mates include smaller, non-aggressive species such as tetras, rasboras, and Corydoras catfish. Avoid larger or overly boisterous fish that may stress them or invade their territory. It is advisable to introduce tank mates simultaneously to minimise territorial disputes. Additionally, ensuring plenty of hiding spots will help all species feel secure in their environment.
✓ Expert Tip
Consider keeping a larger group of smaller fish to help diffuse aggression, allowing the Apistogramma to establish their territories without feeling threatened.
Acclimatising your Apistogramma Agassizii is crucial to avoid shock. Begin by floating the sealed bag in your aquarium for about 15-20 minutes to equalise the temperature. After this, gradually introduce aquarium water into the bag, approximately 10% every 10 minutes. Continue this process for about an hour, then gently release the fish into the tank without pouring in the transport water. This method helps them adjust to the water conditions in their new environment, minimising stress.
✓ Expert Tip
Using a drip acclimatisation method can also be beneficial, as it allows for a slower and more controlled adjustment.
Healthy Apistogramma Agassizii exhibit vibrant colours, active swimming behaviour, and a good appetite. Their fins should be intact, and they should not display signs of distress or unusual behaviour, such as hiding excessively or staying at the surface. Regular observation is essential to spot any changes in behaviour, which could indicate stress or illness. Additionally, clear and bright eyes, as well as a healthy body condition, are also indicators of overall well-being.
✓ Expert Tip
Maintaining stable water parameters and a clean environment is key to keeping your fish healthy and thriving.
To successfully breed Apistogramma Agassizii, provide a breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water and plenty of hiding spots. Introducing a pair that has formed a bond is ideal. The female will lay eggs on a flat surface, and the parents will guard the fry diligently. Ensure the water parameters remain stable, and provide high-quality live food for the fry as they grow. It is advisable to remove the parents once the fry are free-swimming to prevent them from being seen as threats.
✓ Expert Tip
Using a separate breeding tank can increase the chances of successfully raising fry without parental interference.
The optimal temperature range for Apistogramma Agassizii is between 24-28°C (75-82°F). Maintaining a stable temperature is vital for their health and behaviour. Sudden fluctuations can lead to stress and susceptibility to disease. Consider using a reliable aquarium heater and thermometer to monitor the temperature consistently. Additionally, ensure that your aquarium is not placed in direct sunlight, as this can cause temperature spikes during the day.
✓ Expert Tip
Using a heater with a built-in thermostat can help maintain a consistent temperature without constant manual adjustments.
In captivity, Apistogramma Agassizii can live up to 5-10 years with proper care. Their lifespan can be significantly influenced by the quality of the water, diet, and overall tank conditions. Regular maintenance, such as water changes and monitoring of water parameters, is crucial to ensuring a long and healthy life for these beautiful fish. Additionally, stress reduction through proper tank mates and hiding spots is vital for their well-being.
✓ Expert Tip
Maintaining a stable and clean environment will help maximise their lifespan and overall health.
Apistogramma Agassizii thrives in a substrate that mimics their natural habitat, such as fine sand or smooth gravel. This type of substrate allows them to dig and forage, behaviours that are essential for their well-being. Additionally, a darker substrate can enhance their vibrant colours. Avoid sharp or rough substrates that could injure their delicate fins. Incorporating leaf litter or small stones can also provide additional hiding spaces and enrich their environment.
✓ Expert Tip
Consider using a substrate that can assist with beneficial bacteria growth, aiding in the overall health of your aquarium.
Apistogramma Agassizii displays interesting behaviours, including territoriality and parental care during breeding. Males tend to be more aggressive, especially when guarding their territory or during spawning. They often establish a hierarchy within the tank, which can lead to displays of dominance. Observing them during feeding times can reveal their foraging behaviours, as they tend to sift through substrate searching for food. Providing plenty of hiding spots will help alleviate stress and allow them to exhibit their natural behaviours comfortably.
✓ Expert Tip
Creating a structured environment with plants and decorations will encourage natural behaviours and reduce aggression.
Preventing diseases in Apistogramma Agassizii involves maintaining excellent water quality, providing a balanced diet, and minimising stress. Regular water changes, monitoring parameters, and ensuring filtration is adequate are crucial. Quarantine new fish for at least two weeks before introducing them to your main tank to prevent the spread of diseases. Additionally, keeping an eye on your fish for any signs of illness, such as unusual swimming patterns or changes in appetite, allows for early intervention.
✓ Expert Tip
Consider using natural remedies or preventative treatments to enhance your fish’s immune systems.
Apistogramma Agassizii prefers subdued lighting, which mimics their natural habitat. This can be achieved through the use of floating plants or strategically placed decorations that provide shaded areas. Bright lighting can stress these fish and lead to undesirable behaviours. A lighting schedule of 10-12 hours a day is recommended, allowing for a natural day-night cycle. Ensure that any lighting used does not create excessive glare, as this can also cause stress.
✓ Expert Tip
Using LED lights with adjustable brightness can help create the perfect lighting conditions for your Apistogramma Agassizii.
Recognising stress in Apistogramma Agassizii is critical for their well-being. Signs include excessive hiding, erratic swimming patterns, loss of appetite, and colour fading. Additionally, they may exhibit aggressive behaviours towards tank mates or become overly timid. Changes in breathing rates or fin clamping can also indicate distress. If you observe these behaviours, it is essential to assess the tank conditions, check water parameters, and ensure that the environment is suitable for your fish.
✓ Expert Tip
Creating a calm environment with plenty of hiding spots can help alleviate stress and promote healthy behaviours.
To replicate the natural habitat of Apistogramma Agassizii, focus on creating a biotope that includes soft, slightly acidic water and a substrate of fine sand or gravel. Incorporate driftwood, rocks, and live plants, which provide hiding spots and mimic their environment in the Amazon River basin. Maintaining stable water parameters and providing a well-planted tank with plenty of cover will ensure these fish feel secure and thrive in your aquarium.
✓ Expert Tip
Adding leaf litter can enhance the habitat, providing not only cover but also a source of food for your fish.
Emily Carter (verified owner) –
I am thrilled to share my experience with the PAIR Apistogramma Agassizii «Blue» that I purchased about two months ago. As a passionate aquarium hobbyist, I have always been drawn to dwarf cichlids due to their vibrant colors and unique personalities. This pair has exceeded my expectations! The male exhibits stunning blue and yellow hues, while the female shows beautiful patterns that enhance the tank’s aesthetics.
When I introduced them to my 20-gallon planted tank, they immediately began to explore their new home, which was heartwarming to witness. Their natural behavior is a joy to observe, and they’ve settled in well, showing no signs of stress — a true testament to their health. After a week, they were already displaying some spawning behavior, which indicates they are comfortable and happy in their environment.
Compared to other cichlids I’ve kept, the Apistogramma Agassizii are more peaceful and less aggressive, making them perfect for a community tank. Just a small note: they do appreciate hiding spots, so ensure your setup includes caves or dense plants.
I highly recommend this pair to any aquarist looking to add some color and charm to their freshwater tank. Their lively behavior and unique traits make them a delightful addition for both new and experienced fish keepers alike!
Emily Carter (verified owner) –
I’ve been keeping fish for over five years, and I recently added a pair of Apistogramma Agassizii ‘Blue’ to my peaceful community aquarium. I can’t express how stunning they are! The vibrant colors and intricate patterns have become the centerpiece of my tank. After just two weeks, I can already see how well they’re settling in. The male is quite bold, showing off his beautiful hues, while the female is a bit more shy but just as beautiful. It’s heartwarming to watch them explore their surroundings together.
They seem to thrive in my 20-gallon setup with plenty of hiding spots and soft substrates. I appreciate that they’re relatively peaceful compared to some other cichlids, making them perfect for my other tropical fish. Just a heads-up to new owners: they enjoy mild water conditions, so make sure to keep an eye on that! Overall, this pair has added so much joy to my aquarium. I highly recommend them to anyone looking to introduce stunning freshwater fish to their collection. You’ll definitely love their personalities!