Inka 50 Apistogramma

Apistogramma baenschi 'Inka 50' is one of the most eagerly sought dwarf cichlids from Peru, named for the Inca civilization whose cultural heartland overlaps with the fish's native range. Males display a unique combination of a bold dark lateral stripe, a series of midlateral blotches, and vivid lemon-yellow body coloration with blue-tinged finnage.

In the aquarium, this species appreciates a sandy substrate with scattered caves and dense vegetation. The 'Inka 50' label was originally a commercial trade name that has become widely adopted in the hobby to distinguish this patterned form from other A. baenschi variants.

Breeding is relatively accessible for an intermediate keeper. The female spawns in a cavity and guards the fry vigorously; the male should be removed once parental aggression becomes intense to protect tankmates.

Water: Soft, slightly acidic — pH 5.5–7.0, temperature 24–28°C. Tank: 60 L minimum; fine sand substrate, coconut caves, and dense plant coverage. Feeding: Varied diet of small live/frozen invertebrates and quality pellets. Breeding: Cave spawner; female guards fry; separate male if aggression escalates. Compatibility: Small peaceful tetras and Corydoras make ideal tankmates.