How difficult is it to keep Panda Dwarf Cichlid?

Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.

What is the ideal temperature for Panda Dwarf Cichlid?

The ideal temperature for Panda Dwarf Cichlid is 24〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

What is the lifespan of Panda Dwarf Cichlid?

The average lifespan of Panda Dwarf Cichlid is 3-5 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.

How large does Panda Dwarf Cichlid get?

Panda Dwarf Cichlid typically reaches Up to about 3.9cm standard length as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.

What should I feed Panda Dwarf Cichlid?

Panda Dwarf Cichlid feeds on: Live and frozen Artemia, Daphnia and bloodworm, plus prepared foods. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.

What is the typical price for Panda Dwarf Cichlid?

The price of Panda Dwarf Cichlid varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Panda Dwarf Cichlid

Intermediate

Apistogramma nijsseni

A dwarf cichlid known only from blackwater streams of the Ucayali system in Peru. Brooding females show bold dark patches over bright colour, the origin of the name panda dwarf cichlid. It prefers soft, acidic water.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Temperature

24〜28℃

Lifespan

3-5 years

Size

Up to about 3.9cm standard length

Diet

Live and frozen Artemia, Daphnia and bloodworm, plus prepared foods

About

Apistogramma nijsseni is known only from blackwater tributaries of the Ucayali system in Loreto, Peru; FishBase gives the Carahuayte drainage, and the Copal River at Jenaro Herrera is also cited. It reaches about 3.9cm standard length, males being larger, more colourful and longer-finned. Brooding females develop dark patches on the gill covers, flanks and belly, and this pattern is the source of the name panda dwarf cichlid. Seriously Fish gives 24-28C, pH 5.0-6.5 and 0-4 dGH, with a pair kept in 60x30cm, about 54 litres. It feeds mainly on benthic invertebrates, so live and frozen Artemia, Daphnia and bloodworm are the staple. It is a substrate spawner laying in crevices or cavities, the female guarding eggs and fry. Because it has only ever been recorded from the type locality, the IUCN classifies it as Data Deficient.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Lifespan of the Panda Dwarf Cichlid

The Panda Dwarf Cichlid lives 3-5 years.

Size of the Panda Dwarf Cichlid

The Panda Dwarf Cichlid grows to Up to about 3.9cm standard length.

Temperature & humidity for the Panda Dwarf Cichlid

The ideal temperature for the Panda Dwarf Cichlid is 24〜28℃.

Basic Info

Origin

South America: Peru, Loreto region, blackwater tributaries of the Ucayali system

Lifespan

3-5 years

Care Specifications

pH: 5–6.5
Hardness (GH): 0–4 dGH
Water Temp.: 24–28℃
Min. Tank: 54 L

PeacefulPairBreeding: Moderate

Sources: Seriously Fish: Apistogramma nijsseni / FishBase: Apistogramma nijsseni

References & Sources

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.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Apistogramma nijsseni Kullander, 1979

Authority databases: FishBase

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listedIUCN DD · Data Deficient

Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / IUCN Red List

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.