Lueling's Apistogramma

Apistogramma luelingi is named after the late German aquarist and ichthyologist Otto Lüling, who contributed greatly to our knowledge of South American freshwater fish. This Peruvian species inhabits soft, tannin-rich forest streams and rewards dedicated keepers with some of the most striking coloration in the genus — deep turquoise scale rows against a warm yellow-gold body, edged with vivid red fin margins.

The species requires genuine soft, acidic water to achieve its full coloration and to breed successfully. It is a moderately demanding cave-spawning species that benefits from meticulous attention to water quality and a stress-free environment.

Patient keepers who invest in proper blackwater conditions will be rewarded with a truly stunning fish that shows off for its keeper and breeds reliably once settled.

Water: Soft, acidic — pH 5.0–6.5, temperature 24–28°C, low TDS. Tank: 60 L with leaf litter, driftwood, and plant cover. Feeding: Live/frozen invertebrates primarily; high-quality micro-pellets as supplement. Breeding: Cave spawner; soft water essential for egg development; female guards exclusively. Compatibility: Small peaceful Amazonian tetras and surface-dwelling dither fish.