If you want to start keeping Apistogramma dwarf cichlids and you're asking Which apistogramma species should I get for my first Apistogramma? Then I would suggest starting with Apistogramma Cacatuoides.
Read on to understand why.
Commonly Available Apistogramma Species
If you are just starting out with keeping Apistogrammas I suggest starting with one of the more commonly available species. This is for a few reasons:
-
Apistogramma Price
Commonly Available Apistogramma species will be less expensive than more exotic or rare species. And also lees expensive than wild caught specimens.
When starting out with Apistogrammas there is no need to buy an expensive species, which are also often more difficult to keep.
-
Apistogramma Robustness / Hardiness
Commonly Available Apistogramma species are domestically bread and generally hardier and more robust as they are better acclimatised to domestic conditions.
As such they are less fussy and more accepting of a wider range of water conditions compared to wild caught specimens.
You still need to provide suitable water of the correct parameters and a habitate they enjoy - check this article for a detailed guide on keeping Apistograma.
The following species are generally commonly available: Cacatuoides, Agassizii, Macmasteri, Trifasciata, Borellii.
Apistogramma Size
Some apistogramma spicies such as borilli are quite small, which in itself is not a problem but if you have a community tank a larger Apistograma like Cacatuoides or Agassizii may allow for a wider range of tank mates.
Slightly larger fish will hold their ground a bit better and be less likely to be out competed for food.
Apistogramma Compatibility
Generally speaking Apistogramma dwarf cichlids are quite peaceful fish except for when they are breeding.
This makes them very compatible with other peaceful fish who have similar water parameter requirements.
For example Apistogrammas can be happily kept in community tanks with Tetras, Angle Fish, Plecos, Corydoras Catfish and many more!
What Is The Easiest Apistogramma To Keep?
I would recommend Apistogramma Cacatuoides as the easiest Apistogramma to keep. They are commonly available, domestically bread and more robust to varying water parameters.
They are usually reasonably priced and are also very compatible with other peaceful fish meaning they are suitable for community aquariums.
