[Ebook] 500 freshwater aquarium fish – Cichlids – Borelli’s Dwarf Cichlid (Apistogramma borellii)

This is a slightly deeper-bodied species than Apistogramma agassizii. Several naturally occurring color forms exist. In all forms, mature males have some blue coloration and quite splendid dorsal fins when expanded. Occasionally young males in a group will adopt the same coloration as the females, and are thus not regarded by older males as rivals.

Other common name

• Umbrella Dwarf Cichlid

Synonym

• Apistogramma reitzigi

Distribution

• Mainly Mato Grosso (Brazil), Pantanal (Paraguay).

Size

• Males up to 3in (8cm); females considerably smaller.

Behavior

• Peaceful toward other species, but intolerant of its own in confined space.

Diet

• Will accept some commercial preparations, but prefers livefoods. Aquarium: Thick planting, plus other forms of shelter, e.g. caves. Dark, fine-grained substratum recommended. Temperature range: 72-77F (22-25C), slightly higher for breeding.

Breeding

• Eggs are (usually) laid on the roof of a cave. Female takes on main responsibility for guarding eggs, male and female both involved in fry protection, with male defending territory Hatching takes 4-5 days If several females are kept in a sufficiently spacious aquarium with well-spaced-out caves, each will establish its own territory and may spawn with the same male.