Key Features:

Distinctive Appearance:
A stunning dwarf cichlid known for its brilliant red, orange, and yellow coloration, complemented by shimmering blue highlights on the fins and face. Males develop elongated dorsal, anal, and tail fins with intense coloration, while females are smaller and display bright yellow breeding colors.

Graceful Swimmer:
Displays a graceful combination of hovering and short darting movements, often staying close to caves, driftwood, and densely planted areas. Its elegant swimming style adds vibrant movement and character to the aquarium.

Behavior:
Intelligent and generally peaceful, though mildly territorial, especially during breeding. Males establish small territories, while females become protective of eggs and fry. With adequate space and hiding places, they coexist well with other peaceful community fish.

Care Requirements:

Tank Conditions:

Requires a well-planted aquarium with plenty of caves, driftwood, leaf litter, and other natural hiding spots. Ideal water temperature is 75–82°F (24–28°C), with soft, slightly acidic to neutral water preferred. Stable water parameters and good filtration are essential for maintaining health and vibrant coloration.

Diet:

Carnivorous/omnivorous. Thrives on a varied diet of high-quality micro pellets, flakes, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, mosquito larvae, and other small live or frozen foods. A protein-rich diet helps maintain vibrant colors and overall health.

Compatibility:

Generally peaceful but can become territorial, particularly males or breeding pairs. Best kept with calm community fish such as small tetras, pencilfish, rasboras, and Corydoras. Avoid aggressive or overly active species that may outcompete or stress them.

Size and Growth:

Adult Size:

Typically reaches 4–5 cm for females and 6–8 cm for males under ideal conditions.

Growth:

Grows steadily under optimal care, with juveniles reaching maturity in approximately 6–8 months. Warm, stable water conditions and a varied, protein-rich diet encourage healthy development and enhance the species' vivid red, orange, and blue coloration.