Imported
Three-Striped Dwarf Cichlid (Apistogramma Trifisciatus)
Native Location: South America
Climate: Freshwater
Maximum Size: 4 – 5.5cm (1.5 – 2 inches)
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Diet: Carnivorous
Breeding: Easy
Temperature Range: 20 – 25℃ (75 – 81℉)
Preferred pH Range: 5.0 – 7.0
Minimum Aquarium Size: 94 L (25 gallons)
Potential Tankmates: Tetras, Pygmy Corydoras, Rasboras
Care Level: Beginner
Three-striped Dwarf cichlids are not the easiest fish to keep, but their unique appearance makes them more than appealing. Dark, striking stripes across their bodies and vibrant blue fins.
Three-striped Dwarfs are predatory fish and love the thrill of the chase that comes with live foods. Only entertain them with this once or twice a week. To be sure your fish remain healthy, do supply them with nutrient-rich pellet or flake food. These Three-Striped Dwarfs are curious wee creatures and will be rather outgoing, perhaps too much for shy species to handle. Make sure that any tankmates are of a similar size, have a dynamic nature, and are non-aggressive. Three-Striped Dwarfs also have tempting fins for any fin-nippers, so avoid these fish as tankmates, or they could cause ongoing issues for your cichlids.
While they will swim all around, and even up to the glass to see what is going on, Three-Stripes are a peaceful species and won't look for trouble, so long as they have enough places to hide from other fish. While females don't have a problem with each other, males tend to become territorial against other males. Objects like driftwood and rocks can provide good shelter from others and light. Three-Striped Dwarfs prefer a sandy substrate with plenty of plants.
Male Three-Stripes will be more colourful than the females. And as the name expresses, these dwarf cichlids are much smaller than typical cichlids. These cichlids are easy to breed at home; beginners should be aware of movement in your tank, it can disrupt breeding. Keeping a high ratio of females to males in your breeding tank will also help them recognise their breeding season, as this is how it would be for them in the wild.
All our fish are quarantined on arrival for two weeks. During this time, they are treated for any possible diseases and given a complete health check to make sure they are health, happy and eating well before being placed in our display aquariums, ready for sale.
Dead on Arrival (DOA) Policy: In the unfortunate event that your fish arrives dead, please follow these steps: Within 12 hours of the delivery, take clear, unopened bag pictures showing the deceased fish. Send these photographs and your order number to our customer service email at getfish@thefishroom.co.nz or to our Facebook page and we will then offer a refund or store credit for the cost of the fish.
Two-Week Guarantee Policy: We stand behind the health and quality of our fish, which is why we offer a two-week guarantee starting from the day of delivery. If your fish dies within this time frame, adhere to the following procedure: Take clear photos of the deceased fish. Using a reliable test kit, document via a dated photo, water parameters (pH, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite levels). Please email us the photographs, water parameters, and order number to getfish@thefishroom.co.nz or our Facebook page. After reviewing your claim, if approved, we will issue a store credit for the cost of the fish. Our two-week guarantee does not cover fish deaths due to unsuitable water conditions, incompatible tank mates or “disasters” i.e. a heater overheating. We recommend thoroughly researching each fish species' needs before introducing them to your aquarium to prevent such situations.
Freight Charges: Please note that shipping or freight charges are non-refundable under all circumstances. We hope this guide makes our refund and guarantee process more understandable. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please get in touch with us at getfish@thefishroom.co.nz. We are always happy to assist. Thank you for choosing The Fish Room. Happy fish keeping!
