Blue Flame Apistogramma

Blue Flame Apistogramma (Apistogramma agassizii) is a striking captive color strain combining vivid blue iridescent coloration with warm orange-red flame accents in the fins and facial areas. The blue and orange contrast creates a fish that lives up to its evocative name — particularly during male display when all fins are spread fully. Named for the great Swiss-American naturalist Louis Agassiz, A. agassizii is one of the most iconic dwarf cichlids in the hobby. The male's distinctive spade-shaped tail and bold color patterns make this species immediately recognizable and endlessly captivating.

Feeding & Care Tip: Always soak Hikari Micro Pellets in a small cup of tank water for 30–60 seconds before feeding — Apistogrammas can be prone to bloat from dry foods expanding in the gut. Hikari Vibra Bites are an excellent treat option; the sinking worm-like shape triggers the natural hunting instinct of these micro-predators and they will snap them up eagerly. Color is most vivid in soft, slightly acidic water with dark substrate and Indian almond leaves — the tannins both soften the water and provide the dimly lit, leaf-litter conditions where this species feels most secure. For breeding conditioning, Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Tubifex Worms fed 2–3 times per week reliably trigger spawning behavior and improve egg quality.

Native to the Amazon River and its tributaries across Brazil, Peru, and Colombia, Apistogramma agassizii inhabits slow-moving blackwater streams and flooded forest areas with abundant leaf litter and woody debris. It is one of the most widespread Apistogramma species and consequently shows enormous variation in color and pattern between river populations — each locality form is distinct and genuinely collectible. Blue Flame is a trade name for a captive-developed agassizii color form. Blue iridescence with flame-orange fin accents is most vivid under good lighting with a dark substrate.

Keep one male with two or more females for best results. Males are territorial with other males of the same species but peaceful with unrelated tankmates. The spade-shaped tail of the male — a diagnostic feature of this species — fans out brilliantly during display. Females are intensely devoted mothers and will aggressively defend their spawn against all comers, including the male.

Apistogrammas are cave-spawning dwarf cichlids. The female takes on all parental duties — she guards the eggs and fry aggressively while her body turns bright canary yellow as a warning signal. Males should be watched during this period as females may attack them to protect the spawn; providing sight-breaks with plants and décor helps reduce tension. Coconut caves, clay pots, or driftwood crevices all make excellent spawning sites. Fry are initially tiny and require infusoria or freshly hatched baby brine shrimp for their first meals.

Care & Ideal Parameters