Apistogramma Agassizi "Double Red"

Apistogramma Agassizii "Double Red" — A Crown Jewel of the Dwarf Cichlid World

Majestic, intensely coloured, and brimming with personality, the Apistogramma agassizii "Double Red" is one of the most sought-after and visually stunning dwarf cichlids in the hobby. A selectively bred form of the wild Agassiz’s Dwarf Cichlid from the Amazon basin, the Double Red variant is prized for its extraordinary colouration — a blazing red suffused across both the dorsal and caudal fins, set against a vivid blue-green iridescent body that shimmers under aquarium lighting.

Males are particularly spectacular, with their sword-like tail extensions and bold territorial displays. Females, though smaller and more subdued, turn a striking golden-yellow when guarding eggs — a transformation that signals one of the most fascinating breeding behaviours in the freshwater hobby.

Care at a Glance

• Common Name: Apistogramma Double Red, Agassiz’s Dwarf Cichlid
• Scientific Name: Apistogramma agassizii "Double Red"
• Origin: Selectively bred; wild type from the Amazon River basin, South America
• Adult Size: Males up to 3.5 inches (9 cm); females smaller at ~2 inches (5 cm)
• pH: 5.0 – 7.0 (soft, acidic water preferred)
• Temperature: 24 – 29°C (75 – 84°F)
• Temperament: Peaceful toward other species; males territorial with each other
• Difficulty: Moderate to Advanced

Tank & Setup Tips

Apistogramma agassizii thrive in a well-planted aquarium of at least 30 gallons, with a soft sand substrate for their natural digging behaviour. Provide an abundance of caves (coconut shells, ceramic caves, driftwood hollows), leaf litter, and dense planting to establish territories and give females safe spawning sites.

Soft, slightly acidic water with low hardness is ideal — Indian almond leaves and driftwood help naturally lower pH and add beneficial tannins. Gentle filtration with minimal flow replicates their calm Amazonian habitat. Keep one male with one or two females (harem setup) for best results.

Feeding

Carnivorous and enthusiastic feeders. Accept high-quality micro pellets and frozen or live foods: baby brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, and micro worms. A varied, protein-rich diet is essential for peak colouration and breeding condition. Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.

Compatible Tank Mates

Peaceful toward most community fish that occupy the upper water column. Ideal tank mates include small tetras (cardinal, rummy nose, ember), corydoras, small rasboras, and pencilfish. Avoid other bottom-dwelling cichlids that may compete for territory. Do not house two males together in smaller tanks.

Breeding

Cave spawners — females deposit eggs inside a cave and become intensely protective, turning bright yellow as a warning signal. The female guards and fans the eggs while the male defends the broader territory. Fry are free-swimming within 7–10 days and can be raised on baby brine shrimp and micro foods.

📸 Photos are for reference only. Actual fish may vary slightly in colour and pattern — each one is uniquely beautiful!