Three-Banded Apisto Blue Care Guide
A selectively bred line of Apistogramma trifasciata with intense blue finnage, a hardy South American dwarf cichlid tolerant of cooler water.
Overview
Apistogramma trifasciata "Blue" is a selectively bred ornamental line of A. trifasciata, a dwarf cichlid of the family Cichlidae. The wild species has a relatively wide distribution extending from the rio Guapore drainage in the southern Amazon basin through the rio Paraguay watershed in Brazil and Paraguay as far as the middle Parana basin in Argentina. The blue line is selected for intense blue fin coloration.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Apistogramma
- Scientific name: Apistogramma trifasciata "Blue"
- Base species: Apistogramma trifasciata
Habitat
The wild form inhabits sluggish creeks and tributaries where leaf litter accumulates, favouring shaded areas with cover and small caves. These biotopes are soft and warm, and the species ranges into cooler southern waters than many other apistos.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 L
- Temperature: 22-27 °C (72-81 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7.5
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- Water flow: low
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
A sand substrate with leaf litter and cave-like retreats mirrors the natural habitat and provides the territorial structure this bottom-oriented species needs.
Diet
The species is primarily carnivorous, feeding on benthic invertebrates. In the aquarium it accepts live and frozen foods such as Artemia, Daphnia and bloodworm, alongside dried foods, offered about twice daily.
Compatibility
This is a semi-aggressive, bottom-dwelling fish. Males are territorial and intolerant of other apisto males. Wild specimens are best kept alone or with small dither fish, while captive-raised fish suit peaceful community setups with small tetras and corydoras. Avoid angelfish and aggressive cichlids.
Breeding
A. trifasciata is a cave spawner. Eggs are laid in a crevice and the female guards eggs and fry after the male establishes territory; eggs hatch in roughly 36-72 hours depending on temperature. Breeding difficulty is intermediate.