
AI-generated image
Apistogramma baenschi
A small dwarf cichlid from Peru. Males show a bold dark blotch on the flank, green-blue iridescence and extended yellowish dorsal rays. It prefers soft acidic water and will breed in a pair tank furnished with wood and caves. Widely traded as "Inka 50".
Apistogramma baenschi is a small cichlid from Peruvian river systems, described in 2004 and long traded under the name "Inka 50". Males reach about 5.5cm SL and females about 4cm, males showing a broad dark flank blotch, green-blue iridescence, a yellowish dorsal fin and reddish bands in the caudal fin. Seriously Fish gives 20-26C, pH 4.0-6.5 and 1-5 dGH, in a tank of at least 80 x 30cm (about 72 litres) furnished with wood, leaf litter and ceramic caves. The diet is chiefly carnivorous - Artemia, Daphnia and chironomid larvae - though most fish accept dried foods. It is a substrate spawner that deposits eggs inside crevices; eggs hatch in 36-72 hours and fry are free-swimming 5-6 days later, reaching sexual maturity in 5-6 months. Captive-raised stock is easier to settle than wild fish.
The Inca Dwarf Cichlid lives 3-5 years.
The Inca Dwarf Cichlid grows to Males ~5.5cm, females ~4cm.
The ideal temperature for the Inca Dwarf Cichlid is 20〜26℃.
Origin
South America (Peru)
Lifespan
3-5 years
Size
Males ~5.5cm, females ~4cm
Sources: Seriously Fish / FishBase
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Apistogramma baenschi Römer, Hahn, Römer, Soares & Wöhler, 2004
Authority databases: FishBase
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
Temperature
20〜26℃
Frozen and live foods (Artemia, Daphnia, bloodworm), dried pellets
A base of at least 80 x 30cm (about 72 litres). Provide plenty of cover - driftwood, leaf litter and ceramic caves - and avoid strong flow.
Keep 20-26C, pH 4.0-6.5 and 1-5 dGH. Very soft, acidic water is needed for eggs to develop.
Small dither fish such as tetras work well. Do not mix with other Apistogramma species; wild fish are best kept alone or as a pair.
Chiefly carnivorous. Base the diet on live and frozen Artemia, Daphnia and bloodworm; most fish also take dried pellets.
A substrate spawner that attaches eggs inside caves. Eggs hatch in 36-72 hours and fry swim free 5-6 days later; the female tends the brood.
Sensitive to sudden changes in water chemistry. Captive-bred stock settles more reliably than freshly imported wild fish.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Inca Dwarf Cichlid is 20〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Inca Dwarf Cichlid is 3-5 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Inca Dwarf Cichlid typically reaches Males ~5.5cm, females ~4cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Inca Dwarf Cichlid feeds on: Frozen and live foods (Artemia, Daphnia, bloodworm), dried pellets. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Inca Dwarf Cichlid varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 17, 2026