Three-stripe Dwarf Cichlid – Apistogramma trifasciata | Colorful, active South American dwarf cichlid

The Three-stripe Dwarf Cichlid (Apistogramma trifasciata) is an elegant and colorful species from South America, immediately catching the eye with its characteristic three dark longitudinal stripes and metallic shimmering coloration. Males in the breeding phase display an intense blue-green on their bodies and brightly red to orange fin edges – a breathtaking play of colors in the aquarium.

In nature, Apistogramma trifasciata inhabits calm sections of water in Bolivia, Paraguay, and Brazil. There, it lives in soft, slightly acidic water among roots, plants, and leaves. In the aquarium, it prefers similar conditions and exhibits lively but peaceful behavior. This dwarf cichlid particularly thrives in planted tanks with sand substrate and many hiding places.

🌿 Characteristics & Husbandry:
🐟 Fish size: M (approx. 2.5–3 cm, juvenile)
🌍 Origin: South America (Bolivia, Paraguay, Brazil) – Bred
🌡️ Temperature: 24–29 °C
💧 pH value: 5.5–7.5
⚖️ Total hardness: up to 15 °dGH
🐠 Social behavior: Peaceful, pair-forming or harem keeping
🏞️ Aquarium: from 80 l with sand substrate, roots, plants & leaves

🍽️ Feeding:
The Three-stripe Dwarf Cichlid readily accepts frozen and live food such as Artemia, Cyclops, and mosquito larvae, but also eats fine granulate and flake food. A varied diet promotes color intensity, vitality, and breeding behavior.

💡 Tip:
Keep Apistogramma trifasciata in pairs or a small group. Soft water, many hiding places, and a naturalistic setup encourage courtship and parental care.

👉 Conclusion:
The Three-stripe Dwarf Cichlid (Apistogramma trifasciata) is a colorful, peaceful, and active Apistogramma – ideal for planted South American aquariums.