Species: Double Red Agassiz's Apistogramma (Apistogramma agassizii "Double Red")
The Double Red Agassiz's Apistogramma is a spectacular dwarf cichlid admired for its brilliant red finnage, elegant body shape, and fascinating personality. Native to the Amazon Basin of South America, this selectively bred color variety is one of the most popular Apistogramma in the aquarium hobby. Their vibrant colors, manageable size, and interesting breeding behavior make them an outstanding choice for planted aquariums and peaceful community tanks.
The Double Red Agassiz's Apistogramma (Apistogramma agassizii "Double Red") is a selectively bred color morph featuring brilliant red dorsal, caudal, and anal fins accented by vibrant blues and yellows throughout the body. Males develop elongated finnage and intense coloration, while females display beautiful yellow breeding colors when guarding eggs or fry.
These intelligent dwarf cichlids thrive in well-planted aquariums with driftwood, caves, leaf litter, and plenty of hiding places. They establish small territories but are considerably more peaceful than larger cichlid species.
Moderate
Peaceful to Semi-aggressive
Male: Up to 3 inches
Female: Up to 2 inches
3–5 years
Carnivorous — thrives on high-quality cichlid pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, mysis shrimp, and other protein-rich foods.
20 gallons minimum for a pair
Temperature: 74–82°F
pH: 5.5–7.0
Hardness: Soft to moderately soft water
Double Red Agassiz's Apistogramma are intelligent, curious fish that spend much of their time exploring the lower and middle portions of the aquarium. They appreciate densely planted aquariums with caves, driftwood, and leaf litter where they can establish territories and feel secure.
They are excellent candidates for peaceful community aquariums and are compatible with:
Avoid aggressive cichlids, fin-nipping fish, or large predatory species.
Double Red Agassiz's Apistogramma display their brightest colors in aquariums with subdued lighting, dark substrates, and excellent water quality. Stable water conditions, regular maintenance, and a varied protein-rich diet will help maintain their health and vibrant coloration.
During spawning, females become more territorial while protecting eggs and fry. Providing caves or coconut huts will encourage natural breeding behavior.
How large do Double Red Agassiz's Apistogramma get?
Males typically reach about 3 inches, while females usually grow to around 2 inches.
Are Double Red Agassiz's Apistogramma good community fish?
Yes. They do well with peaceful community fish that occupy different areas of the aquarium.
Can they be kept as a pair?
Absolutely. A bonded male and female pair is the most common setup and may breed under the proper conditions.
Do they need a planted aquarium?
While not required, they thrive in heavily planted aquariums with caves, driftwood, and plenty of hiding places that mimic their natural habitat.
What do Double Red Agassiz's Apistogramma eat?
They enjoy a varied diet consisting of high-quality pellets, frozen foods, and live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and mysis shrimp.
Can they live with shrimp?
Larger Amano shrimp may coexist successfully, but small ornamental shrimp and shrimplets may be viewed as food.
Are Double Red Agassiz's Apistogramma suitable for beginners?
They are considered moderately easy to care for and are best suited for aquarists who can provide stable water parameters and a well-maintained aquarium.
