Species profile
Apistogramma Baenschi
Apistogramma baenschi
Semi aggressive
Hard care
80 L minimum aquarium
5–7 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Minimum group: 2
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
A true specialist soft-water Apistogramma. Avoid generic neutral/hard community parameters if breeding or maintaining wild-type stock.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
21–26 °C
pH
4–6.5
GH
0–5 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
High
Predation risk
Shrimp fry
Bioload factor
1
Soft-water dwarf cichlid with strong brood defence. A pair needs multiple low caves, leaf litter and visual barriers.
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
80 L
Minimum footprint
75 × 35 cm
Accepted scientific name
Apistogramma baenschi
Alternative names
Inka 50, Baensch's Apistogramma
Native range
Upper Amazon tributaries in Loreto, Peru.
Natural habitat
Shallow forest pools and streams with leaf litter, decomposing wood, very soft acidic water and little current.
Diet & feeding
Micropredator taking insect larvae, worms and small crustaceans; use small frozen/live foods and good prepared foods if accepted.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are larger with elongated fins and blue/yellow coloration; breeding females turn vivid yellow with dark patterning.
Breeding
Cave spawner. Female tends eggs and fry and becomes highly territorial; the male defends the outer area.