Elizabeth’s Dwarf Cichlid
Apistogramma elizabethae
What you need to keep a Elizabeth’s Dwarf Cichlid
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pH
4.5–6
Temperature
25–29 °C
Max size
8 cm
Min tank
75 L
Where to buy
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Overview
What to know before you buy.
A demanding blackwater species from the Rio Negro needing very soft, acidic water. Males carry a lyre tail and elaborate dorsal; strictly for experienced keepers.
Care guide
Keeping Elizabeth’s Dwarf Cichlid healthy in a South African setup.
Tank setup
A minimum 75L aquarium suits Elizabeth’s Dwarf Cichlid. Use robust décor and sight breaks so each fish can hold its own space.
Water parameters
Keep pH 4.5–6 and 25–29°C. Stable parameters matter more than chasing perfect numbers; acclimate new arrivals slowly.
Feeding
Carnivore — live and frozen foods. Feed small amounts it clears in a couple of minutes, and vary the diet.
Behaviour
Territorial when breeding; sensitive. Watch it at feeding time and at lights-out to see its real temperament in your tank.
Tankmates
Choose robust tankmates of similar size, and nothing small enough to be eaten. Add Elizabeth’s Dwarf Cichlid last so territories reset.
Breeding
Breeding success with Elizabeth’s Dwarf Cichlid depends on the line and water chemistry; ask your shop about proven pairs.
Community photos
From hobbyists across SA.