Mamore Apisto (Apistogramma mamorensis) Care Guide
A Bolivian dwarf cichlid trade form from the rio Mamore drainage, kept as a bottom-dwelling, semi-aggressive Apistogramma in soft, planted aquariums.
Overview
The Mamore Apisto is a small South American dwarf cichlid associated with the rio Mamore drainage in Bolivia and circulated in the aquarium trade under the name Apistogramma mamorensis. The genus Apistogramma contains roughly one hundred described species spread across South America, and Mamore-basin populations are typically traded as locality forms rather than as a formally verified species record. It is a bottom-oriented fish that establishes small territories.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Apistogramma
- Scientific name (trade): Apistogramma mamorensis
- Status: aquarist trade / locality form from the rio Mamore drainage; not matched to a formally described species record in the sources consulted
Habitat
Apistogramma dwarf cichlids occur in habitats across South America, and the Mamore form is linked to the rio Mamore basin in Bolivia. In the trade it is noted for tolerating a wider parameter range and cooler water than many warmth-loving congeners. Aquarium references describe the genus as dwelling in slow, often soft and acidic to neutral waters with leaf litter and structure.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 L
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7.5
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
- Substrate: fine sand with caves, hardscape and dense planting for hiding spots
Diet
It is a carnivore. Apistogramma dwarf cichlids do best on a protein-rich diet that includes high-quality prepared foods together with frozen or live items such as brine shrimp, daphnia and bloodworms. Feeding small portions twice daily, consumed within a few minutes, is recommended.
Compatibility
Temperament is semi-aggressive, especially around spawning territories. As a bottom dweller it pairs well with peaceful upper-water schooling fish such as small tetras and rasboras, while aggressive species are avoided. Within the species, multiple males in a small tank often clash, and large cichlids should not be kept with it.
Breeding
Apistogramma are cave-spawners; the female tends the eggs and fry inside a cave while the male defends the wider territory. Breeding this dwarf cichlid is considered intermediate in difficulty and is favoured by soft, slightly acidic water and abundant cover.