Red-Lined Apisto (Apistogramma rubrolineata) Care Guide
Apistogramma rubrolineata is a blackwater dwarf cichlid known only from the Rio Manuripi in Bolivia, described in 2002.
Compiled by Aquairi from published sources · Published · Updated
Overview
Apistogramma rubrolineata is a small freshwater dwarf cichlid described by Hein, Zarske & Zapata in 2002. According to FishBase it is known only from its type locality, the Rio Manuripi in Bolivia, a typical blackwater river with loamy banks. It is a benthopelagic species reaching about 4 cm in length. It belongs to Apistogramma, described in the Wikipedia genus account as the most species-rich cichlid genus in the Americas, alongside Crenicichla, with around 93 recognised species.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Apistogramma
- Scientific name: Apistogramma rubrolineata
- Described by: Hein, Zarske & Zapata, 2002
Habitat
FishBase records this species only from the Rio Manuripi in Bolivia and describes it as a typical blackwater river with loamy banks, with a reported pH of about 5.9 or higher. The genus generally occupies sheltered, leaf-littered margins of slow-moving lowland waters.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 L
- Temperature: 25-29 °C (77-84 °F)
- pH: 4.5-6.5
- GH: 1-4 °dGH
- Maximum size: about 4.0 cm SL (FishBase)
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
A soft sandy substrate with wood, roots and dried leaf litter forming shaded caves replicates its blackwater origins. Wild Apistogramma often require very soft, acidic water.
Diet
FishBase assigns a trophic level of about 3.3, consistent with a carnivorous diet. Apistogramma feed mainly on benthic invertebrates such as insect larvae in nature and accept small live and frozen foods such as Artemia and Daphnia in the aquarium.
Compatibility
A bottom-dwelling, territorial dwarf cichlid best kept with small, peaceful mid- and upper-water fish such as tetras. Multiple Apistogramma males and larger or aggressive cichlids should be avoided in confined tanks.
Breeding
Like other members of the genus, Apistogramma rubrolineata is a cave spawner. Females typically guard the eggs and fry inside a crevice or cave while the male defends the surrounding territory.
Apistogramma rubrolineata Breeding Guide
Overview
Apistogramma rubrolineata is a dwarf cichlid known only from its type locality, the Rio Manuripi in Bolivia, where it inhabits a black-water river with loamy banks (FishBase). FishBase records a pH of about 5.9 or higher and lists the species as Data Deficient (assessed 2014). Its name derives from the Latin for red stripes, referring to the seven dark red lines on the body. It is bred following genus biology, as no species-specific spawning account was found in the consulted whitelisted sources.
Sexing
FishBase gives a maximum standard length of 4.0 cm. Detailed dimorphism is not provided for the species; across the genus Apistogramma males are generally larger and more colourful, while breeding females are most frequently yellow with blackish markings (Wikipedia). The species is distinguished by seven dark red lines and a characteristic arc connecting the postorbital stripe and the midlateral band (FishBase).
Conditioning
No species-specific conditioning is documented. The KB record classifies A. rubrolineata as a carnivore fed twice daily; a varied diet supports breeding condition, consistent with the genus' carnivorous habits.
Breeding Setup
Because Apistogramma spawn in crevices and small caves (Wikipedia), enclosed sites should be provided. As a black-water species (FishBase), very soft, acidic water is appropriate; the KB record lists a minimum volume of 80 L with temperatures of 25-29 °C, pH 4.5-6.5 and GH 1-4.
Spawning Behavior & Trigger
Following genus behaviour, the female prepares a cave and deposits eggs which she tends; Apistogramma breed either in polygamous harems or as monogamous pairs (Wikipedia). A species-specific trigger for A. rubrolineata was not documented in the consulted sources.
Egg & Fry Care
In Apistogramma the female is more highly involved in caring for eggs and fry while the male defends the territory (Wikipedia). Fry sex ratio is influenced by water conditions: warmer water produces more males, and in some species lower pH also produces more males (Wikipedia).
Common Challenges
FishBase classifies A. rubrolineata as Data Deficient and notes it is known from a single black-water locality, reflecting limited documentation. The KB record rates breeding difficulty as advanced, consistent with the soft, acidic water the genus requires for eggs to develop.