Apistogramma (Inka 50) Apistogramma baenschi
Apistogramma Inka (Apistogramma baenschi)
The Apistogramma Inka (Apistogramma baenschi), also known as the Inka 50, is a stunning dwarf South American cichlid prized for its bright yellow coloration, bold black lateral markings, and beautiful extended fin rays in mature males. Native to the Ucayali River basin in Peru, this rare Apisto is a favorite among aquascapers, dwarf cichlid keepers, and South American biotope enthusiasts.
Peaceful compared to larger cichlids but territorial during breeding, Apistogramma Inka does best in mature planted aquariums with caves, driftwood, leaf litter, and calm tank mates. Their manageable size, vivid coloration, and fascinating behavior make them an excellent centerpiece fish for soft-water community aquariums.
Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Apistogramma baenschi
- Common Names: Apistogramma Inka, Inka 50
- Origin: Peru, Ucayali River basin
- Adult Size: 2.5–3 inches
- Lifespan: 3–5 years
- Temperament: Semi-territorial; generally peaceful outside breeding
- Care Level: Intermediate
- Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons; longer tanks preferred
- Diet: Omnivore
- Temperature: 76–82°F
- pH: 5.5–7.0
- Water Hardness: Soft, slightly acidic water preferred
Key Features
- Brilliant Coloration: Bright yellow body with bold black markings and blue iridescent highlights.
- Dwarf Cichlid Size: Stays small, making it ideal for planted aquariums and smaller cichlid setups.
- Beautiful Male Fins: Mature males can develop extended fin rays and impressive display coloration.
- Peruvian Apistogramma: Native to the Ucayali River basin in Peru.
- Great for Biotope Tanks: Perfect for South American-style aquariums with driftwood, botanicals, and soft water.
- Fascinating Behavior: Shows natural cichlid personality, territory behavior, and parental care when breeding.
Tank Setup
Apistogramma Inka thrives in a mature aquarium with stable water conditions and plenty of structure. Provide caves, coconut huts, driftwood, plants, and leaf litter to create natural territories and hiding spaces. A sand or fine-gravel substrate is ideal, especially in planted or biotope-style aquariums.
This species prefers soft, slightly acidic water and does best with gentle filtration, clean water, and low to moderate water movement. A 20-gallon long aquarium is a good minimum for a pair, while larger tanks are better for harems or community setups.
Diet & Feeding
Apistogramma Inka is an omnivore and should be fed a varied diet. Offer high-quality micro pellets or small cichlid foods along with frozen or live foods such as daphnia, baby brine shrimp, bloodworms, and brine shrimp.
Feed small portions once or twice daily, offering only what the fish can consume within a few minutes. A varied diet helps support color, breeding condition, growth, and overall health.
Behavior & Tank Mates
Apistogramma Inka can be kept as a pair or as a harem with one male and multiple females when enough space and hiding areas are provided. They are generally peaceful outside of breeding but can become territorial around caves or fry.
Good tank mates include peaceful tetras, pencilfish, rasboras, Corydoras, Otocinclus, and other calm dwarf catfish. Avoid large aggressive cichlids, fin-nippers, or overly active fish that may stress them or compete for territory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Apistogramma Inkas good for planted tanks?
Yes. Apistogramma Inka does very well in planted aquariums with caves, driftwood, and hiding spaces. Plants help create cover and reduce stress.
Do Apistogramma Inkas breed easily?
They can breed readily when kept in soft, slightly acidic water with caves and excellent water quality. Females typically guard eggs and fry, making their breeding behavior very interesting to observe.
What makes Apistogramma Inka unique?
Their vivid yellow coloration, bold black lateral markings, blue iridescence, and extended male fin rays make them stand out from many other dwarf cichlids.
Can Apistogramma Inka be kept in community tanks?
Yes, they can be kept with peaceful community fish that enjoy similar water conditions. Avoid aggressive tank mates, fin-nippers, and large predatory fish.
Are Apistogramma Inkas beginner-friendly?
They are best for intermediate aquarists because they prefer stable, soft, slightly acidic water. Experienced beginners with a mature aquarium may also be successful.
What tank size is best for Apistogramma Inka?
A 20-gallon aquarium is recommended as a minimum, with a 20-gallon long or larger tank preferred for better territory space and aquascaping options.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Shop Apistogramma Inka (Apistogramma baenschi) online or in-store at Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming. This rare Peruvian dwarf cichlid is a beautiful choice for planted aquariums, South American biotope tanks, and Apistogramma enthusiasts.
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