By: Joe Saucedo
Habitat: The species is found in several different environments.
The preferred substrate is a sandy gravel with a grain size 1-2mm in size. Plant the tank heavily and add enough rocks to create caves fro breeding purposes.
Temperature / Water Conditions: pH should not go much beyond 6 but a drop to 5 may be needed for the frye when in breeding season. This species is found in Black water, White water and clear water areas. Optimal temperature is 27ºc. In addition the water should be very soft(5-10º dGH).
Lighting: Lighting will vary due to the amount of plants used. Some areas will allow for very bright lighting where some areas will be more subdued.
Food:This Species will readily eat any food offered.
Breeding: Males will collect a harem hence the need for a long tank. The female will become aggressive if the tank is too short. If the female is not ready then the male becomes a bully. Aggies are cave brooders. Frye will be free swimming within 9 days after hatching. Several females may form subterritories protecting their section of the tank.
Similar Species: A. gyphera and A. pulchra
Recommended reading for specific species information:
South American Dwarf Cichlids , Dieter Bork, Hans J. Mayland; Hardcover - 190 pages 1 edition (October 1, 1997) Verlag A.C.S. GmbH; ISBN: 3931702294