F1: Apistogramma elizabethae "Red"

Apistogramma elizabethae (Elizabeth's Dwarf Cichlid)

​Bring home one of the most stunning and highly sought-after gems of the South American dwarf cichlid world. Apistogramma elizabethae is prized by hobbyists for its striking aesthetics, featuring dramatic finnage and a breathtaking interplay of vibrant blues and deep reds in mature males.

​Key Features
​Exotic Coloration: Mature males boast deeply extended dorsal rays, a spade-shaped tail, and intense splashes of electric blue and fiery red. Females display a lovely subtle olive hue that transforms into a brilliant, protective yellow when breeding.

​Manageable Size: Reaching a maximum adult length of roughly 1.5 to 2 inches, they are the ideal centerpiece species for nano aquariums and smaller planted setups.

​Natural Behavior: Fascinating to observe as they sift through fine sand substrates and establish dynamic micro-territories among driftwood and leaf litter.

​Care Guidelines & Specifications
​Minimum Tank Size: 15 gallons for a pair or trio, with plenty of line-of-sight breaks, caves, and hiding spots.
​Water Parameters: Thrives best in soft, acidic, tannin-stained water (Temperature: 72–82°F, pH: 5.0–6.5, Hardness: 1–5 dGH). Incorporating botanicals like alder cones or catappa leaves helps replicate their native blackwater habitat.

​Diet: Carnivorous micropredator. Accepts high-quality micro-pellets or flakes, but thrives and shows peak coloration when regularly offered live or frozen foods such as baby brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.

​Temperament: Generally peaceful with other small, non-aggressive tank mates (like small tetras or pencilfish), though males can become moderately territorial during active spawning periods.