Species profile
Apistogramma Hongsloi
Apistogramma hongsloi
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
70 L minimum aquarium
5–7 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Minimum group: 2
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Domestic colour strains can be very vivid, but water quality and territory requirements remain those of the wild species.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
23–28 °C
pH
5–7
GH
1–10 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 2
Tank zone
Bottom–mid
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Shrimp fry
Bioload factor
1
Territorial dwarf cichlid, particularly when breeding. A pair or carefully planned harem needs leaf litter, caves and strong visual separation.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
Yes
Digs substrate
Yes
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
4–6 years
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
70 L
Minimum footprint
70 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Apistogramma hongsloi
Alternative names
Hongslo's Apistogramma, Red Line Apistogramma
Native range
Orinoco basin in Colombia and Venezuela.
Natural habitat
Slow tributaries, flooded margins and leaf-litter habitats with soft acidic water, wood and root cover.
Diet & feeding
Micropredator feeding on small benthic invertebrates; use varied frozen/live foods with high-quality small prepared foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are larger and more colourful; females become strongly yellow/black while caring for a brood.
Breeding
Cave spawner. The female tends eggs and fry while the male defends the surrounding territory.