Two-Striped Apisto (Apistogramma bitaeniata) Care Guide
A slender Amazonian dwarf cichlid of blackwater rivers, with males showing extended dorsal rays; prefers soft, acidic water.
Overview
Apistogramma bitaeniata is a slender freshwater dwarf cichlid of the Amazon basin. It is strongly sexually dimorphic: males are larger and more colourful, with more extended fins, including elongated dorsal rays, while females are smaller and plainer.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Apistogramma
- Scientific name: Apistogramma bitaeniata
- Described by: Pellegrin, 1936
- Common synonym: Apistogramma sweglesi
Habitat
It is found in blackwater rivers of the Amazon basin in Brazil and Peru, including the middle Marañón and lower Río Ucayali basins, with its range extending through tributaries toward Manaus. It favours slower-moving tributaries, backwaters and creeks where fallen leaf litter collects.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 L
- Temperature: 25-29 °C (77-84 °F)
- pH: 4.5-6.5
- GH: 1-4 °dGH
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
Wild specimens prefer the lower pH range; a layout with sand, wood and leaf litter and dim lighting reflects natural conditions.
Diet
It is primarily carnivorous, feeding mostly on benthic invertebrates in nature. In aquaria it accepts live and frozen foods such as Artemia, Daphnia and chironomid larvae (bloodworm).
Compatibility
A bottom-oriented, semi-aggressive species. Captive-raised fish suit community tanks; wild specimens are best kept alone or with small dither fishes such as Nannostomus. Avoid mixing with other Apistogramma, angelfish and aggressive cichlids. Suitable companions include cardinal tetra, rummy-nose tetra, Sterbai corydoras and hatchetfish.
Breeding
A cave/substrate spawner that normally lays eggs in crevices or cavities among the decor. The female cares for the eggs and fry, and the male may need to be removed in smaller tanks.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern.