Apistogramma agassizii “Super Red” - UK

If you are looking for truly eye-catching dwarf cichlids for sale UK, few fish combine colour, personality and manageable size as well as Apistogramma agassizii “Super Red”. This striking South American species is one of the most sought-after options in the Apistogramma for sale UK category because it offers the classic dwarf cichlid look—extended finnage, bright red highlights and intelligent behaviour—without needing a huge aquarium. Native to the Amazon basin of Peru and Brazil, this fish stays around 7.5 cm as an adult, usually lives up to 5 years with good care, and suits aquarists who can provide stable water and a thoughtful layout. For many keepers searching South American cichlids for sale UK, it hits the sweet spot between beauty and practicality.

The “Super Red” form is especially popular among keepers of tropical dwarf fish UK collections because the males develop intense red tones in the tail, dorsal and anal fins, often with a sleek torpedo body and elegant facial markings. It is a peaceful but territorial species, especially around caves and breeding sites, so success depends on understanding Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» tank mates, Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» water parameters, and the right dwarf cichlid planted tank setup. See our detailed photos showing the fin extension, body shape and red saturation that make this one of the most colourful dwarf cichlids available. If you want a characterful fish for a planted Amazon-style aquarium, this is an excellent choice to buy dwarf cichlid UK with confidence.

Where Do Apistogramma Agassizii “Super Red” Come From? Natural Habitat Explained

The wild form of Apistogramma agassizii comes from the Amazon basin in South America, especially slow-moving tributaries and flooded forest margins in Peru and Brazil. These are shallow, warm waters with leaf litter, submerged roots, fallen branches and sandy bottoms. In nature, the fish spend much of their time near the bottom, weaving in and out of cover while searching for tiny invertebrates, insect larvae, crustaceans and organic matter. Understanding the Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» habitat helps explain why this species prefers a calm, structured aquarium rather than a bright, bare tank.

Wild habitats are usually soft and slightly acidic, which is why dwarf cichlid water hardness matters so much in captivity. While tank-bred fish are often more adaptable than wild fish, the best Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» ideal water conditions still mirror those blackwater and clearwater environments: low to moderate hardness, stable temperature and plenty of visual barriers. Their natural ecosystem is rich in tannins from decaying leaves and wood, which can subtly soften the look of the water and reduce stress. That is one reason many aquarists choose this species for a South American biotope with wood, caves and floating shade.

In the wild, these fish are not open-water swimmers. They are micro-predators and territory holders, using cover to feel secure. This is why a sparse tank often leads to washed-out colour and nervous behaviour. A well-designed Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» for planted tank layout allows them to show more natural confidence, courtship and foraging behaviour. If you are researching south american dwarf cichlids for sale uk, this species stands out because it brings authentic Amazon behaviour into a modest home aquarium.

How to Set Up the Perfect Tank for Apistogramma Agassizii “Super Red”

A successful Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» care guide always starts with the right aquarium footprint. The official Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» minimum tank size is 60 litres, and that works for a pair in a carefully arranged aquarium. However, the more practical Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» tank size for long-term success is 70-90 litres if you want extra decor, more stable water and easier territory management. For a harem of one male with two or three females, go larger. Although some people search for Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» for small aquarium options, this species still needs floor space, cover and defined zones.

Tank Size Requirements

For a pair, aim for at least 60 litres with a rectangular footprint rather than a tall cube. In a dwarf cichlid nano tank setup, water changes must be more frequent and aggression can become harder to manage, especially during spawning. If you want to keep them Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» with tetras or Corydoras, a larger aquarium gives much better results. This fish may be small, but it behaves like a true cichlid and appreciates personal space.

Water Parameters

The ideal Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» water parameters are a temperature of 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7.0 and hardness of 2-12 dGH. The best Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» pH level for colour and breeding is usually around 6.0-6.8. The correct Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» water temperature sits comfortably between 25 and 27°C for routine care, while slightly warmer conditions can encourage courtship. These dwarf cichlid temperature requirements should be kept stable rather than fluctuating. Sudden swings in pH or temperature stress dwarf cichlids quickly.

Filtration

Use gentle but effective filtration. A mature sponge filter works very well in breeding tanks, while a small external or internal filter with adjustable flow is ideal in display tanks. Avoid blasting the bottom with current. In nature, these fish inhabit calmer margins, so excessive flow can suppress feeding and natural behaviour. If you are building a dwarf cichlid planted tank setup, use spray bars or flow deflectors to spread current more softly.

Substrate

The best dwarf cichlid substrate preference is fine sand. Sand lets them sift, forage and rest naturally, and it is much safer than sharp gravel. A pale to mid-tone natural sand also enhances the red finnage by contrast. Add leaf litter, seed pods and smooth caves to create a more realistic Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» aquarium requirements layout.

Plants & Decor

This species is excellent Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» for planted tank displays. Use hardy plants around the edges and background, leaving open sand at the front. Good choices include Java fern, Anubias on wood, floating plants and rooted species around cave zones. For aquarists comparing Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» aquarium ideas, the most reliable formula is driftwood, coconut caves, leaf litter and broken sight lines. If you enjoy browsing other South American dwarfs for a themed setup, see Apistogramma Agassizii - Agassiz'S Dwarf Cichlid and Guianacara Dacrya - Bandit Cichlid - for inspiration.

Lighting Requirements

Moderate lighting works best. Very bright light without floating cover can make them shy. Floating plants or tannin-stained water help diffuse light and make the fish feel secure. In heavily planted aquariums, a 7-8 hour photoperiod is usually enough to support plant growth without overstressing bottom dwellers.

What Do Apistogramma Agassizii “Super Red” Eat? Complete Feeding Guide

The Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» diet is best described as omnivorous with a strong preference for meaty foods. In nature they hunt tiny crustaceans, insect larvae and other microfauna among leaves and wood. In the aquarium, they thrive on a varied plan built around quality micro pellets plus frozen foods. If you are considering live Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» for sale UK, feeding is one of the biggest factors affecting colour, breeding readiness and immune strength.

Staple Foods

A good Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» feeding guide starts with a small sinking or slow-sinking micro pellet formulated for carnivorous or omnivorous cichlids. Feed only what they can consume in 1-2 minutes. Because they are bottom-oriented and deliberate feeders, they do better with small, frequent meals than one large dump of food.

Supplemental Foods

Frozen brine shrimp, daphnia, cyclops and bloodworm can all be used in rotation. Brine shrimp is particularly useful for maintaining body condition and encouraging display behaviour. Daphnia helps add fibre to the diet. These foods are especially useful when conditioning fish for Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» breeding.

Treats & Special Foods

Live foods such as baby brine shrimp, grindal worms or mosquito larvae can trigger stronger courtship and improve fry growth. Use them as treats rather than the entire diet. Keep variety high; fish that receive mixed foods usually show better red pigmentation and stronger finnage. That is one reason this species remains a favourite among keepers of most colourful dwarf cichlids.

Feeding Frequency & Portion Control

Adults do well on two small meals per day. Juveniles can be fed three smaller meals. Overfeeding is one of the most common causes of poor Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» health, especially in smaller tanks. Uneaten food trapped in caves or leaf litter can quickly damage water quality.

Time	Food	Amount
Morning	Micro pellet or granule	Small pinch, eaten in 1 minute
Evening	Frozen brine shrimp or daphnia	Small portion, no leftovers

What Does Apistogramma Agassizii “Super Red” Look Like? Colors, Patterns & Varieties

The “Super Red” form is one of the most attractive colourful dwarf cichlids in the hobby. Adult males can reach around 7.5 cm and show a long, streamlined body with extended dorsal rays, an elegant lyre-like tail shape and vivid red to orange-red finnage. The body base colour is usually silver, cream or pale gold with darker horizontal markings and facial detail. In a settled fish, the contrast between the body and fins is what creates the dramatic display effect.

Females are smaller, plainer and more compact, usually with yellow tones that intensify during breeding. This sexual dimorphism is useful when selecting a pair or harem. During courtship, the female often becomes brighter yellow while guarding a cave, while the male patrols the outer territory. This is one of the easiest ways to read Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» behaviour in the aquarium.

Among Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» colour variants, the Super Red line is valued for stronger red extension than standard forms, though intensity still depends on genetics, diet, water quality and stress levels. A dark background, natural sand foreground and high-quality varied feeding can all improve presentation. Our photos show the red fin edging, tail shape and body patterning that aquarists look for when choosing standout dwarf cichlids UK stock.

What Fish Can Live With Apistogramma Agassizii “Super Red”? Compatibility Guide

One of the most common questions from customers is: Are Apistogramma peaceful enough for a community tank? The answer is yes, with planning. This species is among the better peaceful dwarf cichlids for community tank setups, but “peaceful” does not mean passive. They defend small territories, especially around caves and during spawning. The key to success is choosing calm midwater fish and avoiding boisterous bottom competitors.

Ideal Tank Mates

The best Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» tank mates are small tetras, pencilfish and gentle Corydoras in sufficiently spacious tanks. Dither fish in the upper levels can actually help the Apistogramma feel safer. If you are planning Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» with tetras, choose peaceful species that will not nip fins or steal every bite of food. For hobbyists exploring freshwater cichlids UK options, this fish works well in a South American community built around calm, warm-water species.

Related species can also be considered in larger, carefully structured setups, though mixing dwarf cichlids always requires caution. If you are comparing other fish in the dwarf cichlids for sale in UK category, suitable related options to research include Apistogramma Elizabethae - Elizabeth'S Dwarf Cichlid, Apistogramma Hongsloi «Red Stroke» - Red, Apistogramma Cf. Viejita Gold - Dwarf and Andinoacara Pulcher «Neon Blue» - Nannacara. These are useful reference points when building your own list of dwarf cichlids for a fish room or species collection.

Species to Avoid

Avoid large cichlids, aggressive fish, fast barbs and heavy bottom dwellers that invade caves. This species should not be housed with fish that constantly challenge territory boundaries. It is also a poor match for rough, alkaline setups intended for african dwarf cichlids. If you are browsing broad South American cichlids UK or freshwater cichlids UK ranges, remember that not every cichlid with a small size has the same social needs.

Community Tank Examples

In a 60-70 litre tank, keep a single pair with a small shoal of upper-level dithers only if the footprint is generous and hiding places are abundant. In 90 litres or more, one male with two females plus a peaceful tetra group can work well. Corydoras are possible in larger tanks, but breeding success may drop because they investigate caves and eat eggs.

Compatibility with Invertebrates

Snails are usually fine. Shrimp are more complicated. Adult Amano shrimp may coexist in planted tanks, but small shrimp and shrimplets can be treated as food. If your main goal is shrimp breeding, choose a different fish.

Species	Compatible?	Notes
Apistogramma Elizabethae - Elizabeth'S Dwarf Cichlid	⚠️ Caution	Possible only in larger tanks with distinct territories; not ideal for beginners.
Small tetras	✅ Yes	Excellent dither fish for upper and midwater levels.
Large aggressive cichlids	❌ Avoid	Too stressful and likely to outcompete or injure them.

How Do You Breed Apistogramma Agassizii “Super Red”? Complete Breeding Guide

Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» breeding is best described as moderate difficulty. They are cave spawners and show fascinating parental care, but success depends on water quality, suitable caves and good conditioning. One of the most common customer questions is: Will Apistogramma breed in a community tank? Sometimes, yes—but raising fry is much easier in a dedicated setup.

Breeding Setup

Use a 40-60 litre breeding tank for a pair, or a larger tank for a male with multiple females. Fine sand, leaf litter, half coconut shells and small caves work very well. Soft, slightly acidic water improves fertility and hatch rates. Keep temperature around 26-27°C and feed a rich varied diet for 1-2 weeks before introducing the pair.

Spawning Behaviour

The female usually selects a cave and intensifies in yellow colour. The male displays outside the cave, flaring fins and patrolling his territory. Typical Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» spawning behaviour includes body quivering, cave cleaning and repeated short visits by the male. Once eggs are laid, the female usually takes over close guarding while the male secures the wider area.

Egg Care & Hatching

Eggs are laid on the roof or wall of a cave and usually hatch in 2-4 days depending on temperature. The female may move wrigglers between pits or hidden spots. Keep disturbance low during this time. Strong flow, sudden light changes or repeated tank maintenance can cause the female to abandon or eat the spawn.

Fry Care & Growth

Once free-swimming, fry need very small foods such as infusoria, vinegar eels or newly hatched baby brine shrimp. Baby brine shrimp is the classic first food and usually gives the best growth. Perform small daily water changes to keep conditions stable. Fry grow steadily if fed often and kept in clean water.

Common Breeding Challenges

First-time pairs may eat eggs. Hard water can reduce hatch rates. Busy community tanks often lead to repeated failed broods because the female feels under pressure. If you want to improve results, simplify the breeding tank and reduce traffic around the aquarium.

Apistogramma Agassizii “Super Red” vs Similar Species: Which Should You Choose?

Choosing between different dwarf cichlids can be difficult because several species share similar size and colour appeal. Buyers often ask about Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» vs German blue ram, Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» vs Apistogramma cacatuoides and even Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» vs kribensis. The right choice depends on your water, tank layout and what kind of behaviour you want to watch.

Feature	Apistogramma agassizii “Super Red”	German Blue Ram
Max Size	7.5 cm	6-7 cm
Care Level	Moderate	Moderate to challenging
Temperature	24-28°C	27-30°C
Price	£12.58	Varies
Best For	Planted Amazon-style tanks with caves	Very warm, stable display aquariums

Feature	Apistogramma agassizii “Super Red”	Apistogramma cacatuoides type
Temperament	Peaceful but territorial	Often a little bolder
Water Flexibility	Prefers softer, acidic water	Often adapts slightly more easily
Colour Style	Streamlined red finnage	Spikier dorsal with orange/red highlights
Beginner Suitability	Good with research	Often among the easiest Apistogramma species
Best For	Elegant Amazon biotopes	Keepers wanting a hardy Apisto look

Compared with rams, the Super Red often handles slightly cooler conditions and tends to use caves and bottom structure more actively. Compared with cacatuoides forms, it can be a little more particular about soft water, but many aquarists prefer its sleeker shape and red tail presentation. If you are researching the best dwarf cichlids comparison, this species is a strong choice for keepers who want classic Apistogramma behaviour, not just colour.

It is also worth noting that comparisons with black ram cichlid for sale uk, cockatoo cichlid for sale uk or even starry night cichlid for sale uk can be misleading because those fish differ in temperament, water needs or adult impact. Among best dwarf cichlids for beginners, this fish is not the absolute easiest, but it is one of the most rewarding once the basics are right.

Common Health Problems in Apistogramma Agassizii “Super Red” & How to Prevent Them

Healthy Apistogramma are alert, responsive and interested in food. Males should hold their fins well and display strong colour once settled. Females should show clear body tone and active territory use. If a fish hides constantly, clamps fins, breathes heavily or refuses food, check water quality first. Most Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» health problems begin with stress from unstable parameters, poor acclimation or unsuitable tank mates.

Signs of a Healthy Fish

Look for clear eyes, intact fins, smooth breathing and steady interest in food. Mild shyness at first is normal, but persistent darkening, flashing or surface hanging is not. In settled fish, natural Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» behaviour includes cave inspection, sand foraging and occasional display posturing.

Common Diseases & Symptoms

Like many dwarf cichlids, they can be vulnerable to ich, bacterial fin damage and internal issues linked to stress or poor diet. Warm soft-water tanks can also allow parasites to spread quickly if quarantine is skipped. Fish kept in hard alkaline water may survive, but they often show poorer colour and reduced resilience over time.

Treatment Options

Start with testing ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH and temperature. Many apparent disease cases are actually environmental. Move sick fish to a hospital tank if treatment is needed. Use medications carefully and always verify suitability for soft-water species and any invertebrates in the system.

Prevention Tips

Stable water changes, varied feeding, low aggression and a mature filter prevent most problems. Keep stocking sensible, especially in a dwarf cichlid nano tank setup. Vacuum debris from hidden areas and do not let food rot under wood or leaves.

Quarantine Procedures

A separate bare-bottom quarantine tank with sponge filtration is ideal for 2-4 weeks. Observe for feeding response, respiration, white spots, excess mucus and faeces quality. This simple step protects established fish and is especially important when ordering live dwarf cichlid delivery UK stock.

What Is Apistogramma Agassizii “Super Red” Behaviour Like in the Aquarium?

This species is intelligent, observant and full of small behaviours that make it much more engaging than many similarly sized fish. It usually occupies the lower third of the tank, moving between caves, roots and plant cover. Males patrol more openly, while females stay closer to chosen shelter. During feeding, both become surprisingly bold once they recognise the keeper.

Outside breeding, they are usually calm and measured rather than hyperactive. During courtship or territory disputes, colours intensify and fins flare dramatically. This is why they are so popular among keepers seeking rare dwarf cichlids UK and display-worthy South American cichlids UK that still fit home aquariums. One common question is: Do Apistogramma dig? They do not excavate like large cichlids, but they may shift sand around cave entrances and fan substrate while spawning.

The best way to encourage natural behaviour is to keep them in a mature, structured aquarium with cover, calm tank mates and a sensible group ratio. In the right setup, they show foraging, courtship, brood care and subtle social signalling that make them one of the most interesting dwarf cichlid for sale choices available.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co?

When customers search buy Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» UK, Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» for sale UK or order Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» online UK, they usually want more than a pretty photo. They want fish that arrive feeding, coloured up and properly conditioned for aquarium life. For this species, that matters because newly imported or poorly settled Apistogramma can be shy and sensitive. Our focus is on offering fish that are already adapted to captive foods and stable aquarium routines, making the transition easier for the buyer.

Each fish is observed before sale for body condition, respiration, fin integrity and feeding response. We pay close attention to the red finnage and overall balance that define a strong “Super Red” presentation. This is especially important for anyone comparing Apistogramma Agassizii for sale UK listings or checking Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» price UK against quality. A lower price means little if the fish arrives stressed, thin or unprepared for community life.

For Apistogramma Agassizii «Super Red» delivery UK, fish are packed in insulated boxes with professional bagging methods, and heat packs are used in colder weather when needed. Tracked transport reduces delays, and careful packing helps maintain temperature and oxygen levels. This is especially relevant for customers searching buy dwarf cichlids online UK or South American cichlids for sale UK who want specialist fish sent safely.

If you are ready to buy dwarf cichlid UK stock with real colour and character, this fish is a rewarding choice. Order your Super Red Agassizii with confidence and build a planted Amazon-style aquarium around one of the hobby’s most elegant dwarf cichlids.

You Might Also Like

If you are building a South American dwarf cichlid setup, consider adding related species to your shortlist. Apistogramma Agassizii - Agassiz'S Dwarf Cichlid is ideal if you want the classic wild-type look, while Apistogramma Hongsloi «Red Stroke» - Red offers a different red-accented style. For a more unusual collection, Apistogramma Elizabethae - Elizabeth'S Dwarf Cichlid is a beautiful specialist choice. If you are comparing alternatives to Apistogramma, Mikrogeophagus Ramirezi «Blue Brilliant» - Papiliochromis and Ramirez Dwarf Cichlid Papiliochromis Ramirezi Asia are warm-water favourites. For broader browsing, explore our dwarf cichlids collection to compare more dwarf cichlids UK and South American cichlids UK options.