Black-throated Dwarf Cichlid Gold – Apistogramma viejita ‘Gold’ | Peaceful, intensely colored South American dwarf cichlid

The Black-Throated Dwarf Cichlid Gold (Apistogramma viejita ‘Gold’) is a splendid color morph of the popular Apistogramma viejita. This cultivated form impresses with its golden-yellow body, metallic shimmering scales, and a contrasting black throat spot, which gives the species its name. Males also show brightly red fin edges that become more intense depending on their mood – a true eye-catcher in any planted aquarium.

The original form of Apistogramma viejita originates from Colombia, where it is found in the quiet backwaters of the Río Meta in the Orinoco basin. There, it inhabits soft, slightly acidic water with dense vegetation and fine substrate. In the aquarium, the golden cultivated form thrives particularly well under similar conditions, displaying its impressive play of colors and peaceful social behavior.

🌿 Characteristics & Care:
🐟 Fish size: M (approx. 2.5–3 cm, juvenile)
🌍 Origin: South America (Colombia, Orinoco region) – Cultivated form “Gold”
🌡️ Temperature: 24–29 °C
💧 pH value: 6.0–7.5
⚖️ Total hardness: up to 15 °dGH
🐠 Social behavior: Peaceful, pair-forming
🏞️ Aquarium: from 80 l with plants, roots, leaves & sand substrate

🍽️ Feeding:
The Black-Throated Dwarf Cichlid Gold readily accepts frozen and live food such as Artemia, Cyclops, Daphnia, and mosquito larvae. After acclimation, it also eats fine granulated and flake food. A varied diet promotes its color intensity and vitality.

💡 Tip:
Keep Apistogramma viejita ‘Gold’ in pairs or small groups (1 male with 2–3 females). A natural setup with soft water, fine sand substrate, and many hiding places ensures species-appropriate behavior and optimal colors.

👉 Conclusion:
The Black-Throated Dwarf Cichlid Gold (Apistogramma viejita ‘Gold’) is a peaceful, colorful, and robust dwarf cichlid – ideal for planted South American aquariums.