Umbrella Cichlid "Opal" (Apistogramma borellii) Care Guide
A peaceful southern dwarf cichlid that tolerates cooler water; the Opal form is a bred colour strain of Apistogramma borellii.
Overview
Apistogramma borellii, the umbrella cichlid, is a dwarf cichlid from southern South America. It occurs further south than most of the genus and so tolerates cooler temperatures. The "Opal" form is one of several ornamental, selectively bred colour variants (registered as A105).
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Apistogramma
- Scientific name: Apistogramma borellii "Opal"
- Described by: Regan, 1906
Habitat
It is native to southern Brazil, Paraguay and northern Argentina, in the Rio Paraguay and lower Rio Paraná basins, and was described from creek systems in Mato Grosso state, Brazil. It is found in flooded marginal areas during the rainy season.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 60 L
- Temperature: 20-26 °C (68-79 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
Sources note this species tolerates cooler water than most apistos. A layout with dim lighting, caves and wood roots provides suitable shelter.
Diet
It is primarily carnivorous, feeding on insects and crustaceans in nature. In aquaria it takes live and frozen foods such as bloodworm, Artemia and Daphnia, and will accept dried pellets.
Compatibility
One of the more peaceful dwarf cichlids. Captive-raised fish suit community aquariums, while wild examples are best kept alone or with small dither fishes. Avoid mixing with other Apistogramma and avoid fin-nipping tetras. Suitable companions include neon tetra, cardinal tetra, pygmy corydoras and Otocinclus.
Breeding
A cave/substrate spawner: the female lures the male to a cave, then guards and fans the eggs, which hatch in roughly 36 hours. The female tends the fry, and may become aggressive toward the male in smaller tanks.