Apistogramma baenschi (Inca) Dwarf Cichlid Fish – Locally Bred

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The Apistogramma baenschi, also known as the Inca Dwarf Cichlid Fish or “Inca 50,” is one of the most colorful and sought-after Apistogramma species. With its brilliant yellow body, bold black markings, and striking fin extensions, this stunning dwarf cichlid is a true centerpiece in any well-planted aquarium. We are proud to offer locally bred specimens at Aquatic Arts, ensuring healthier fish and sustainable availability.

What We Love About This Fish:

• Vivid yellow coloration with dramatic black patterning.
• Dwarf cichlid with fascinating behavior and strong personality.
• Peaceful when kept in proper harems, perfect for planted aquariums.
• Locally bred for excellent health, adaptability, and sustainability.

Natural Habitat:

Wild-type Apistogramma baenschi are native to slow-moving, blackwater tributaries in Peru. They thrive in shaded streams with sandy substrates, leaf litter, and dense cover. The locally bred Inca Dwarf Cichlids we offer have been raised in aquariums, making them well-adapted to community tanks while retaining their natural beauty.

Aquascaping:

• Plants: Thrive in planted setups with Java Fern, Amazon Sword, and Cryptocoryne. Floating plants like Frogbit provide shade and mimic natural conditions.
• Hardscape: Sandy substrate with driftwood, roots, and leaf litter for cover and breeding sites.
• Botanicals: Indian Almond Leaves, oak leaves, and alder cones help simulate their blackwater environment.

Diet and Feeding:

The Inca Dwarf Cichlid Fish is a micro-predator. Feed a varied diet of high-quality flakes and pellets supplemented with frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and Grindal worms. This variety enhances coloration and encourages breeding.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

Best kept in species-only tanks or carefully chosen communities. Suitable tank mates include small, peaceful tetras, pencilfish, corydoras, and dwarf rasboras. Avoid housing with aggressive or fin-nipping fish.

Shrimp Compatibility:

Apistogramma may prey on shrimp fry and even smaller adult shrimp. They are not recommended for dedicated shrimp colonies, though larger ornamental shrimp may coexist if the aquarium has dense cover.

Breeding:

Apistogramma baenschi are cave spawners. Provide coconut shells, clay pots, or caves for females to guard their eggs. Males may display and defend territory, while females exhibit strong maternal care of eggs and fry. Locally bred stock is more likely to breed successfully in home aquariums.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 76°–82° F (24°–28° C)
• pH: 6.0–7.2
• KH: 2–8 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (larger recommended for harems)

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Carnivorous micro-predator; thrives on frozen/live foods.
• Social Behavior: Keep as a harem (1 male with 2–3 females) or pairs.
• Origin: Locally bred by Aquatic Arts.
• Average Adult Size: 2.5–3 inches (6–7.5 cm)
• Average Purchase Size: .75–1 inches 

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