Borelli Yellow Head (Apistogramma borellii) Care Guide
Apistogramma borellii "Yellow Head" is a selectively bred line of a small peaceful South American dwarf cichlid that tolerates cooler water.
Overview
Apistogramma borellii is a small dwarf cichlid from the Cichlidae family, described by Regan in 1906. The "Yellow Head" is an ornamental line selected for intense yellow head coloration. The species is noted for tolerating cooler temperatures than many congeners and reaches only a few centimetres, making it suited to smaller community setups.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Apistogramma
- Scientific name: Apistogramma borellii "Yellow Head"
- Described by: Regan, 1906
Habitat
The wild form occurs in the Rio Paraguay and lower Rio Paraná basins across southern Brazil, Paraguay and northern Argentina. It inhabits creeks and tributaries, favouring shaded areas with cave-like structures formed by decor and submerged wood. In its native range it spawns during the rainy season along flooded banks.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 60 L
- Temperature: 20-26 °C (68-79 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- Water flow: low
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
Diet
The species is primarily carnivorous, feeding on benthic invertebrates such as insects and small crustaceans in nature. In aquaria it accepts live and frozen foods including Artemia, Daphnia and bloodworms, supplemented with dried pellets. Feeding twice daily is appropriate.
Compatibility
A peaceful mid-water dweller. Captive-raised specimens are suitable for community aquariums alongside small characins such as Neon Tetra, Cardinal Tetra, Pygmy Corydoras and Otocinclus. Keeping multiple males together or mixing with angelfish and aggressive cichlids should be avoided.
Breeding
Apistogramma borellii is a cave spawner. The female tends the eggs and fry and may become aggressive toward the male in confined quarters, so a removable male or generous floor space helps. Breeding difficulty is considered intermediate.