Inka Apistogramma

Remarks:  The inka apistogramma is a smaller, but very attractive species of dwarf cichlid from Peru. This species is uncommon and was described fairly recently back in 2004 after being discovered in Peru in fairly cool water compared to the habitats of other apistogramma species. This combined with their tolerance of more neutral water parameters has resulted in them being a fairly easy to keep dwarf cichlid. While they tend to form monogamous pairs, these fish do best when kept in pairs or groups of five or more to spread out any territorial conflict.   Similar to Apistogramma cacatuoides, male inka apistogrammas get tall dorsal fin spines creating a sort of "mohawk" look when mature. Males also possess yellow faces and fins, blue bodies, and a reddish-orange crescent on the caudal fin. Females show the typical golden yellow coloration, dark black ventral fins with orange tips, and black vertical bars that continue up into the dorsal fin resulting in them being equally as attractive as the males. Both males and females can show a black mask as well as a black dot at the base of the tail.   The tank should be furnished with several caves or nooks to protect and spawn in with cichlid caves, overturned flower pots, and leaf litter working well for this purpose.  Breeding is achieved by feeding live baby brine shrimp to an adult pair and providing a proper tank setup. Fry are guarded by one or both parents for several weeks. Dither fish such as small tetras and livebearers can be used to provide parents with targets to chase.