Apistogramma Fire Red Care Guide (UK-based)
 
The Apistogramma agassizii “Fire Red” is a stunning and popular dwarf cichlid known for its intense red and orange coloration. It’s a selectively bred variant of A. agassizii, ideal for peaceful, well-planted aquariums. Here’s a concise care guide tailored for hobbyists in the UK.
 
 
 
 
🔹 Basic Information
 
 
Common Name: Apistogramma Fire Red
Scientific Name: Apistogramma agassizii “Fire Red”
Origin: Bred in captivity (original species from the Amazon Basin)
Size: Males ~7–8 cm, Females ~4–5 cm
Lifespan: 3–5 years
 
 
 
 
 
🔹 Aquarium Requirements
 
 
Tank Size: Minimum 60 litres for a pair (90+ litres recommended for groups)
Water Temperature: 24–28°C
pH: 5.5–7.0 (slightly acidic preferred)
Hardness: Soft water ideal (2–10 dGH)
Filtration: Gentle flow with good biological filtration
Substrate: Sand or fine gravel
Decor: Leaf litter, driftwood, caves, coconut huts – lots of hiding spots
Lighting: Moderate to low (helps show off colour and reduce stress)
 
 
 
 
 
🔹 Tank Mates
 
 
Best Kept With:
Small, peaceful tetras (e.g., ember tetras, neons)
Pencilfish
Corydoras (avoid aggressive bottom dwellers)
Otocinclus
 
Avoid:
Fin-nippers, larger cichlids, boisterous fish
Other territorial dwarf cichlids unless space allows
 
 
 
 
 
 
🔹 Feeding
 
 
Diet: Omnivorous (carnivore-leaning)
Ideal Foods:
Frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia
High-quality micro pellets (e.g., Bug Bites, Vibra Bites)
Live foods when available
 
Feeding Frequency: 1–2 small meals daily
 
 
 
 
 
🔹 Behaviour
 
 
Temperament: Peaceful but territorial during breeding
Male Behaviour: May be dominant; only keep one male per tank unless it’s large
Female Behaviour: Protective of fry, may become feisty during breeding
 
 
 
 
 
🔹 Breeding
 
 
Type: Cave spawner
Setup Tips: Provide multiple caves and hiding spots
Breeding Water: Soft, acidic water (pH 6.0–6.5, low hardness)
Spawning: Female lays eggs in cave; guards them fiercely
Fry Care: Feed infusoria, baby brine shrimp once free-swimming
 
 
 
 
 
🔹 Tips for Success (UK Context)
 
 
Water: Use RO or rainwater mixed with tap to soften water if needed
Temperature Control: Use a reliable heater and thermometer
Aquascaping: A blackwater-style tank with leaf litter (like catappa leaves) helps replicate their natural conditions
Live Plants: Java fern, anubias, floating plants for cover
Regular Maintenance: Weekly 20–30% water changes with dechlorinated, temperature-matched water.