Apistogramma Hongsloi (Type 2)

About the Apistogramma Hongsloi (Type 2)

Apistogramma Hongsloi (Type 2) is one of the most striking South American dwarf cichlids, admired for its brilliant red-orange markings, iridescent blue highlights, and elegant finnage. Type 2 forms are particularly prized for their intense body colour, extended dorsal fin rays, and vivid red patterning along the flanks and tail, making them a standout centrepiece in planted aquariums and Amazon biotope displays.

Native to the Rio Orinoco drainage of Colombia and Venezuela, Apistogramma hongsloi inhabits slow-moving blackwater streams rich in leaf litter, submerged roots, and driftwood. These environments are typically soft, slightly acidic, and heavily shaded, conditions that bring out the fish's most vibrant colours in the aquarium.

Males develop brilliant red, orange, yellow, and metallic blue colouration with elongated fins, while females remain smaller with attractive golden-yellow bodies that intensify during breeding. They form territories during spawning but are generally peaceful towards other community fish outside of breeding periods.

Apistogramma Hongsloi thrive in mature planted aquariums with fine sand, caves, driftwood, leaf litter, and gentle water movement. They pair well with Cardinal Tetras, Rummy Nose Tetras, Pencilfish, Corydoras, Hatchetfish, Otocinclus, and other peaceful South American species.

A varied diet of premium micro pellets, frozen bloodworms, blackworms, baby brine shrimp, daphnia, mosquito larvae, and other live or frozen foods will maximise colouration, breeding success, and overall health.

Beautiful, intelligent, and full of personality, Apistogramma Hongsloi (Type 2) is an exceptional choice for experienced aquarists seeking a premium dwarf cichlid.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name

Apistogramma hongsloi

Common Name

Apistogramma Hongsloi (Type 2)

Origin

Orinoco River Basin (Colombia and Venezuela)

Adult Size

Male: 7–8 cm
Female: 4–5 cm

Temperament

Peaceful (territorial during breeding)

Diet

Carnivorous Omnivore

Minimum Tank Size

75 Litres (pair)

Temperature

24–29°C

pH

5.5–7.0

Water Hardness

1–8 dGH

Difficulty

Intermediate

Lifespan

5–8 Years

Suitable For

Planted aquariums, Amazon biotopes, and peaceful community aquariums

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Apistogramma Hongsloi aggressive?

Generally no. They are peaceful dwarf cichlids but become territorial when breeding, particularly around their chosen cave.

Can Apistogramma Hongsloi live in a community aquarium?

Yes. They do well with peaceful South American fish such as Cardinal Tetras, Rummy Nose Tetras, Corydoras, Pencilfish, Hatchetfish, and Otocinclus.

What do Apistogramma Hongsloi eat?

They thrive on premium micro pellets, frozen bloodworms, blackworms, baby brine shrimp, daphnia, mosquito larvae, and other quality live or frozen foods.

How can I tell males from females?

Males are larger with extended fins and brilliant red, orange, and metallic blue colouration. Females are smaller and become bright yellow when guarding eggs or fry.

Are Apistogramma Hongsloi easy to breed?

Yes. Under soft, slightly acidic water conditions with caves or coconut shells, they readily spawn. Females guard the eggs and fry while the male protects the surrounding territory.

Common Mistakes

Keeping them without territories

Provide caves, driftwood, leaf litter, and visual barriers to reduce stress and encourage natural behaviour.

Using coarse gravel

Fine sand allows natural foraging and is much gentler on their delicate mouths and gills.

Poor water quality

Apistogramma thrive in clean, stable water with regular maintenance and efficient filtration.

Housing them with aggressive cichlids

Avoid larger or aggressive species that may dominate or stress these peaceful dwarf cichlids.

Feeding only dry foods

A varied diet including frozen and live foods will produce the best colouration, breeding success, and overall health.