Feedbook/Fish

Panda dwarf cichlid

Apistogramma nijsseni

Also called Nijssen's dwarf cichlid

Panda dwarf cichlid side portrait: bold black-and-white contrast with thick black eye stripe

Essential gear

  • 60 cm+ tank
  • Fine sand substrate
  • Ceramic caves or driftwood caves
  • Filter
  • Heater
  • Thermometer

Lifespan

3–5years

Water temperature

24–28°C

pH

5.5–6.5

Water column

Bottom

Patrols bottom; guards cave when breeding

Breeding

Cave spawner

One male with several females; female guards eggs

Diet

Mostly carnivorous

Bloodworms, brine shrimp, small pellets

Suggested habitat

Aim for a soft acidic blackwater tank of at least 600 × 300 × 350 mm. Fine sand bottom with multiple caves for breeding, driftwood and broadleaf plants for cover.

Plates are husbandry references—not build plans or generator parameters. Check your own water, vessel, and stocking before you act.