Three Stripe Dwarf Cichlid

Apistogramma trifasciata

A slender dwarf cichlid with three dark horizontal stripes and blue-tinged fins. Males develop elongated fin extensions in mature tanks. Found in slow-moving streams across South America.

Care Parameters

Adult size

6 cm

Min tank

40 L

Temperature

22–28°C

5.5–7

1–8 dGH

Diet

Carnivore

Temperament

Peaceful

Water zone

Bottom

Difficulty

Intermediate

Schooling

Pairs; one male with 2-3 females.

Suitable Plants

Ludwigia repens

Care profile for Ludwigia repens: medium light, low-medium CO₂, intermediate difficulty.

Red Rotala

Red stem plant. Turns red under high light with CO₂.

Monte Carlo

Care profile for Monte Carlo: high light, medium CO₂, intermediate difficulty.

Lilaeopsis

A miniature grass-like plant that forms a dense, low carpet. One of the smallest foreground plants, ideal for nano aquascapes. Tolerates low light but grows denser under high light.

Ludwigia arcuata

A delicate stem plant with thin, needle-like leaves that turn deep red under high light. Also known as Needle Leaf Ludwigia, it adds fine texture and vibrant color to aquascapes.

Compatible Invertebrates

Bamboo Shrimp

Also called the wood shrimp, it stations itself in the current and fans microscopic food from the water with its four feathery feeding fans. Needs brisk flow (8-10x tank volume per hour) and regular feedings of powdered or micro food, or it will slowly starve in a clean tank.

Blue Crayfish

A selectively bred color morph of the red swamp crayfish with brilliant blue coloration. Hardy and active, but will eat plants and harass tank mates.

Cherry Shrimp

The most popular freshwater shrimp — bright red coloration, extremely hardy, and prolific breeder. The gateway species for shrimp keeping. Tolerates a wide range of conditions.

Nerite Snail

The best algae-eating snail for aquariums. Cannot reproduce in freshwater, so populations stay stable. Comes in zebra, tiger, and olive patterns. Will lay white eggs on glass.