Linke's Dwarf Cichlid

About

Found in the Mamoré and Beni River basins of the western Amazon drainage, Apistogramma linkei is a dwarf cichlid that packs a lot of character into a very small frame. Males top out around an inch and a half, making this one of the more compact members of an already small genus. Like most apistogrammas, males are typically more colorful and noticeably larger than females, and the species follows the classic harem-spawning strategy common to the group. One male presiding over a small group of females, each defending her own spawning cave or shelter. Males can be surprisingly tight-lipped about where eggs are being tended, making the breeding process feel almost covert if you're not watching closely. This is an intermediate-level fish, not because it's wildly delicate, but because it rewards keepers who pay attention to water quality and tank setup. Soft, slightly acidic water and plenty of cover in the form of caves, driftwood, and leaf litter will bring out the best behavior. It's a rewarding species for anyone ready to move beyond beginner territory and explore the fascinating world of South American dwarf cichlids.