Viejita II Dwarf Cichlid (Apistogramma sp.)

A colourful dwarf cichlid trade form, sold as single fish

Apistogramma sp. “Viejita II” is the supplier trade label for this dwarf cichlid form. The name does not establish a confirmed species, wild locality or breeding lineage. Mature males show the brightest colour and longer fins; females are smaller and turn yellow when guarding young. For aquarium cover, use roots, suitable leaf litter and sheltered areas in a mature soft-water setup.

This listing sells single, unsexed fish. Several purchases do not guarantee a male and female or a compatible pair; plan adequate aquarium space before choosing a group.

What you receive

Choose 3–4 cm or XL, then the quantity. One quantity is one live fish; sex and compatible pairing are not guaranteed. Choose enough space and shelters before keeping several together. Colour deepens as the fish mature.

Aquarium and water

A mature aquarium of about 60 litres or more, with caves, roots, plants, a layer of dried leaves and soft light. Keep soft, slightly acidic water — 24–27°C, pH 5.5–7.0 and 1–10 dGH — and add the fish only to a cycled aquarium with stable, low nitrate.

Feeding

A small micropredator: feed quality micro-pellets with frozen brine shrimp, Daphnia and bloodworm, in small portions once or twice a day.

Tank mates and behaviour

Peaceful outside breeding, when males defend caves. Keep with small, calm fish such as small tetras, pencilfish and Corydoras; avoid boisterous or large tank mates.

Follow the arrival sequence before releasing the fish

Tropical Fish Co’s delivery and Live Arrival Guarantee policy explains the packing and arrival procedure. Use that current policy and the instructions supplied with your order rather than assuming a fixed packing or weather arrangement. Someone must be at the address to receive the parcel because live animals cannot be left unattended.

1. Receive the parcel in person and start filming before opening it. Show the parcel still sealed with the outer box visible.
2. Open the parcel in one continuous take. Keep filming until the fish can be seen inside the sealed bag before anything is disturbed.
3. Float the bag for 20–30 minutes so the temperature equalises slowly.
4. Do not pour the bag water into the aquarium. Release the fish without adding transport water to the established system.

If a Live Arrival Guarantee claim is required, contact us on the same day with the order number and the continuous unboxing video. Before the parcel arrives, confirm that ammonia and nitrite read zero and that the aquarium matches the water values on this page.

Frequently asked questions

Is this a pair?

No. One quantity is one unsexed fish. Buying several does not guarantee sexes or compatible pairing.

What water does it need?

Soft, slightly acidic water: 24–27°C, pH 5.5–7.0 and 1–10 dGH.

How big does it grow?

The matched supplier care card uses around 6 cm for adult planning; actual size varies and XL remains a retail grade, not a fixed centimetre promise.

Can it live in a community aquarium?

Yes, with small peaceful fish in a mature, calm aquarium with caves.

Public references

• Seriously Fish: Apistogramma viejita — background on the named species, not proof that this supplier trade form is true A. viejita.
• OATA: How to look after dwarf cichlids — water quality, aquarium set-up and feeding guidance.
• RSPCA aquarium environment guidance — biological filtration and the aquarium nitrogen cycle.

For a separate comparison, see Agassiz’s Dwarf Cichlid (Apistogramma agassizii) and the South American dwarf cichlid selection. These are alternatives to research, not a recommendation to combine territorial dwarf cichlids.