A stunning dwarf cichlid from the blackwaters of Peru, formerly known as Apistogramma sp. 'Black-Chin' until it was scientifically described as A. allpahuayo in 2012. It is famous for the male's distinct pitch-black chin and its unique ability among Apistogrammas to undergo functional sex change (a female can morph into a functional male if the dominant male dies). They are harem breeders that require pristine, highly acidic water with leaf litter and a sandy substrate.
Apistogramma Black-Chin At a Glance
Apistogramma Black-Chin Tank Requirements
Will Apistogramma Black-Chin fit in your tank?
Care guides tell you what Apistogramma Black-Chin needs, the next question is whether your tank can safely provide it. Test Apistogramma Black-Chin against your tank size, maintenance needs, and the fish you already keep before you buy.
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Apistogramma Black-Chin Water Parameters
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Apistogramma Black-Chin Temperament & Compatibility
Apistogramma Black-Chin Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Male
Males are larger (up to 7cm), exhibiting the namesake black 'W' marking on the chin, orange/yellow lips, and an extended lyrate caudal fin. They are harem masters and highly aggressive towards other males. Strictly one male per tank is required unless the aquarium is exceptionally large (120cm+) with strictly broken sightlines.
Differs in 4 traits from base species
Also known as: Show Male, Black-chin Male
Female
Females are significantly smaller (4-5cm) with shorter, rounded fins. They turn a vibrant yellow with heavy black markings during breeding. Multiple females can be kept with a single male, but each will establish and violently defend her own small territory (cave) from other females.
Differs in 4 traits from base species
Also known as: Female Apisto
Apistogramma Black-Chin Care Guide Summary
The Apistogramma Black-Chin, scientifically known as Apistogramma allpahuayo, belongs to the Cichlids - South American family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 7 cm and have a fusiform body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as semi-aggressive, this species primarily occupies the bottom zone of the aquarium and produces a low level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Apistogramma Black-Chin requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 60 litres and a tank length of at least 60 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 24°C and 29°C, with a pH range of 4.5–6.5 and a general hardness of 0–5 dGH. A low water flow is preferred.
Due to its specialist needs, the Apistogramma Black-Chin is best suited for fishkeepers who can provide a carefully planned setup. This species is available in 2 varieties: Male and Female. Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Apistogramma Black-Chin Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Apistogramma Black-Chin, a low water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the bottom zone, the aquarium layout should prioritise sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include a sand substrate to accommodate their sifting behaviour, driftwood, which can serve as both a hiding place and a dietary supplement, and leaf litter or blackwater tannins to replicate their natural soft-water habitat.
Apistogramma Black-Chin Compatibility Notes
Classified as semi-aggressive, the Apistogramma Black-Chin is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, ornamental shrimp are not safe companions, conspecific aggression can be intense, especially in smaller tanks, territorial behaviour may cause issues if hiding spots or floor space are limited, and boisterous or fast-moving tankmates may cause this species undue stress. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the bottom zone can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Apistogramma Black-Chin Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Apistogramma Black-Chin.
20 Gallon High
20 Gallon Long
29 Gallon Standard
30 Gallon Breeder
36 Gallon Bowfront
40 Gallon Breeder
Show 19 more tank sizes
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Frequently Asked Questions About Apistogramma Black-Chin
How big does Apistogramma Black-Chin get?
Apistogramma Black-Chin (Apistogramma allpahuayo) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 7 cm. They have a fusiform body shape and a moderate growth rate.
What tank size does Apistogramma Black-Chin need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 60 litres and a tank length of at least 60 cm are recommended for Apistogramma Black-Chin. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Apistogramma Black-Chin need?
Apistogramma Black-Chin thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 24–29°C, a pH between 4.5 and 6.5, and a general hardness of 0–5 dGH. A low water flow is preferred.
Is Apistogramma Black-Chin peaceful or aggressive?
Apistogramma Black-Chin is classified as semi-aggressive with an aggression score of 6 out of 10. They can work in community setups but may clash with certain tankmates.
Can Apistogramma Black-Chin live alone?
Yes, Apistogramma Black-Chin can be kept singly or in a group. They are flexible and adapt well to both setups.
Is Apistogramma Black-Chin safe with shrimp?
No. Apistogramma Black-Chin is known to eat ornamental shrimp and is not recommended for shrimp tanks. Even larger shrimp species like Amano Shrimp may be at risk.
Does Apistogramma Black-Chin have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Apistogramma Black-Chin benefits from sand (sifters), leaf litter/blackwater, and driftwood (digestion/hiding) in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Plants That Suit Apistogramma Black-Chin
These plants pair well with Apistogramma Black-Chin based on shared water preferences, layout fit, and how likely they are to hold up in the same aquarium.
Amazon Frogbit
Limnobium laevigatum
Asian Watergrass
Hygroryza aristata
Asian Watermoss
Salvinia cucullata
Banana Plant
Nymphoides aquatica
Beckett's Water Trumpet
Cryptocoryne beckettii
Broad-leaved Crypt
Cryptocoryne pontederiifolia
Fish Similar to Apistogramma Black-Chin
Apistogramma uaupesi
Apistogramma uaupesi
A stunning and rare dwarf cichlid native to the blackwater Rio Uaupés basin in South America. They are strictly blackwater fish, requiring very soft, acidic water and dim lighting to thrive. Males are famous for their spectacular, sail-like dorsal fins and lyretails. Like most Apistogramma, they are harem breeders and require complex environments with sightline breaks.
Apistogramma atahualpa
Apistogramma atahualpa
A striking dwarf cichlid native to the blackwater streams of the Peruvian Amazon (Rio Nanay basin). They require soft, acidic water and a sandy substrate, as they naturally sift sand for food. While generally peaceful in community tanks, they become highly territorial during breeding. Leaf litter and driftwood are essential to mimic their natural habitat.
Apistogramma panduro
Apistogramma panduro
A stunning and personality-filled dwarf cichlid from the blackwaters of Peru. Unlike many other Apistogramma species that form harems, A. panduro forms strong, monogamous pair bonds. They are heavily sexually dimorphic and require soft, acidic water, sandy substrate for sifting, and plenty of visual barriers like driftwood and leaf litter.
Apistogramma baenschi (Inca 50)
Apistogramma baenschi
A striking South American dwarf cichlid native to Peru. Males boast a dramatically high, sail-like dorsal fin and vibrant blue/yellow coloration. They are cave spawners that require soft, acidic water and a sand substrate for their natural earth-sifting behaviors.
Hongsloi Apistogramma
Apistogramma hongsloi
A striking dwarf cichlid native to the Orinoco River basin in South America. They are popular for their vivid red, yellow, and blue colors. Best kept in blackwater setups with soft, acidic water and plenty of leaf litter. They form harems and require sand substrate, as they sift sand through their gills to find food.
Banded Apistogramma
Apistogramma bitaeniata
A stunning South American dwarf cichlid native to the blackwater streams of the Amazon basin. Known for their distinct dual lateral stripes, they are a bottom-dwelling species that requires soft, acidic water, sandy substrate, and complex environments with caves or leaf litter. They are generally peaceful in a community tank but highly territorial towards other bottom-dwellers, especially when breeding.