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.
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.