Hongsloi Apistogramma

Apistogramma hongsloi is a popular and relatively accessible species from the Colombian Orinoco drainage. It is one of the hardier members of the genus, tolerating a broader range of water parameters than many of its Amazonian relatives, which has made it a gateway species for many aquarists venturing into Apistogramma keeping.

Males are impressively built with a deep body profile and a vivid red lateral stripe running from behind the eye to the caudal peduncle. Multiple geographic color variants exist, with some showing more orange-red tones and others leaning toward yellow-gold.

A. hongsloi is an active and personable cichlid that pairs well with small schooling fish and will spawn readily in a well-set-up aquarium. It is an excellent choice for hobbyists wanting a visually spectacular apisto without the extreme water chemistry demands of blackwater species.

Water: Soft to moderately soft — pH 5.5–7.0, temperature 24–28°C; adapts well to slightly harder water. Tank: 80 L minimum; sand substrate, caves, plants for territorial division. Feeding: Varied diet: pellets, frozen Artemia, bloodworm, and Daphnia. Breeding: Cave spawner; female guards fry; relatively easy to spawn. Compatibility: Small tetras, peaceful livebearers, and Corydoras are excellent choices.